Movie Review: Deranged (1974)
Synopsis:
"Deranged," directed by Alan Ormsby and Jeff Gillen, is a 1974 horror film that explores the chilling true-crime exploits of notorious serial killer Ed Gein, whose gruesome acts of murder and body desecration would later inspire iconic figures in horror cinema. The film begins by introducing us to the main character, Ezra Cobb, portrayed by Roberts Blossom, a socially reclusive man who is deeply affected by the death of his domineering mother. After her passing, Ezra becomes increasingly unhinged, ultimately spiralling into madness. He begins to dig up his mother’s grave and the graves of other women, fashioning a home environment adorned with human remains.
Throughout the film, Ezra grapples with guilt and delusion, often fantastically imagining conversations with his late mother while interacting with the living in disturbing ways. As local authorities begin to uncover the truth behind the missing women in the area, the tension escalates, leading readers through the murky, violent waters of his mind. Various characters are drawn into Ezra’s world, leading to a blend of dark humour and macabre horror that serves to expose the impacts of trauma and isolation.
"Deranged" not only serves as a horror story but also functions as a cautionary tale regarding the devastating effects of an unhealthy attachment and the dire outcome of psychological neglect.
Cast:
- Roberts Blossom as Ezra Cobb
- Marilyn Hanold as Maureen
- Patricia Duran as The Hitchhiker
- James De Niro as The Neighbour
- Ruth Barry as Self-Mutilation Victim
- Larry Storch as The Sheriff
- William DeNiro as Tom
- Ikon D. Robins as Dr. Johnson
- Judy Hennessey as Carla
Review:
"Deranged" is a deeply unsettling exploration of the human psyche, engendered through the lens of horror. Roberts Blossom’s portrayal of Ezra Cobb is both haunting and compelling, encapsulating the character’s turmoil and instability with remarkable nuance. From the outset, the film skilfully sets a tone that is both eerie and uncomfortable, engaging the audience with a sense of foreboding. The screenplay, co-written by Ormsby and Gillen, carefully treads the line between exploiting the gruesome nature of its subject matter and offering a critical look at the motivations behind such violence.
The cinematography, while grounded in the style of the 1970s grindhouse aesthetic, effectively enhances the horror of the narrative. The graininess of the film, along with its dim lighting, contributes to the overall sense of dread. The use of practical effects, particularly in the depiction of corpses and dismemberment, adds an authenticity that is both shocking and grotesque without veering into ridiculousness. The physicality of the violence juxtaposes effectively with the film’s psychological themes, ensuring that the horror does not solely rely on shock value, but rather on the intricacies of Ezra’s deteriorating mental state.
One of the most captivating aspects of "Deranged" is its portrayal of familial relationships, particularly between Ezra and his deceased mother, played in flashbacks that highlight their fraught dynamic. The narrative repeatedly harkens back to his mother’s oppressive nature, framing her as both a source of comfort and the root of his psychological collapse. This backstory adds layers to Ezra’s character, allowing viewers to grasp the tragedy and brokenness of a man who is as much a victim of circumstance as he is a perpetrator of horrifying acts.
The film mirrors other infamous horror narratives of the era, evoking the duality of human nature: the capacity for horror that lies within us all. By creating a character as deeply flawed and complex as Ezra, "Deranged" invites contemplation of broader societal themes, such as the dissolution of the family unit, societal neglect of mental health issues, and the often-overlooked normalcy of dangerous figures within everyday communities.
While the film does possess moments of gallows humour, particularly in the interactions between characters and their obliviousness to the threat posed by Ezra, it does so without undercutting the intense horror that permeates the film. The dark comedic elements serve to heighten the absurdity of life amidst chaos, a commentary perhaps on human resilience in the face of the incomprehensible.
The performances throughout the ensemble cast are commendable, serving to flesh out the narrative beyond its main character. Marilyn Hanold’s portrayal as Maureen offers a brief glimpse into the lives of those who brush against evil, representing the thematic element of innocence exploited. Additionally, the role played by Larry Storch as the Sheriff provides grounding amidst the hysteria, as the law attempts to unveil the grisly truth behind Ezra’s actions.
Notably, the film’s pacing, while occasionally languorous, allows for a deep immersion into the character study of Ezra. There are moments where the viewer is made to linger on unsettling imagery, stimulating introspective thought and self-reflection regarding what it means to reside in the mind of someone like Ezra. Despite its various unsettling and gruesome aspects, "Deranged" ultimately becomes a dissection of loss, love, and the manipulation of grief.
However, it should be recognised that "Deranged" is not for the faint of heart. The graphic depictions of violence and the thematic elements surrounding mental illness might be triggering for some viewers. The bluntness with which the film approaches such sensitive topics can be divisive, as it boldly confronts the audience with uncomfortable truths.
Despite its rough edges and budgetary limitations typical of low-budget 1970s horror, "Deranged" encapsulates the essence of what has made horror cinema an enduring genre: the exploration of human depravity and the confrontation with our deepest fears. Alan Ormsby and Jeff Gillen have crafted a film that not only shocks, but prompts viewers to ponder the complexities of character-driven narratives in horror.
Conclusion:
In the pantheon of horror films that draw inspiration from real-life atrocities, "Deranged" stands out as a poignant yet grotesque examination of loss, madness, and the darker side of human nature. The combination of haunting performances, particularly from Roberts Blossom, coupled with a narrative that refuses to shy away from its thematic weight makes for a compelling viewing experience. "Deranged" succeeds not only as a horror film but as a tragic reminder of the potential for evil within us, often buried beneath layers of grief and isolation.
For these reasons, I would score "Deranged" a solid 7/10. It may not be perfect, but it effectively alights an unforgettable horror journey that resonates long after its conclusion.
