Movie
The Spiral Staircase

Average Bufph Rating: 5.0 / 5.0

The Spiral Staircase

IMDb 7.3 (11,698)

Dorothy McGuire, George Brent, Ethel Barrymore

1946

In 1916, a shadowy serial killer is targeting women with "afflictions"; one night during a thunderstorm, the mute Helen feels menaced.

Reviews by public Bufph profiles
  • bev.chen profile picture
    bev.chen
    October 21, 2025

    A captivating descent into the shadowy recesses of the human psyche, 'The Spiral Staircase' is a film that enthralls with its atmospheric tension and nuanced performances. Dorothy McGuire's portrayal of the vulnerable Helen is both delicate and resilient, drawing you into her world of fear and uncertainty. The film's exploration of isolation and the power of the mind is as thought-provoking as it is unsettling. The use of light and shadow, coupled with the subtle yet powerful performances, makes this a standout piece of cinema that lingers in the mind long after the final scene.

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