How Awful About Allan 1970
"A Tense Psychological Thriller"
Curtis Harrington's *How Awful About Allan (1970)* delivers a chilling dive into psychological horror as a fragile man returns home after months in a mental institution, only to find his new life haunted by an unsettling boarder.
Director: Curtis Harrington
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is How Awful About Allan (1970) about?
The film follows Allan, a man released from a mental hospital after eight months, who moves in with his sister. As his grip on reality weakens, he becomes convinced a mysterious boarder is plotting to harm him—though the line between truth and delusion blurs at every turn.
Who directed How Awful About Allan?
The film was directed by Curtis Harrington, a filmmaker known for blending psychological drama with horror elements in uniquely unsettling ways.
Who stars in How Awful About Allan?
The cast features Anthony Perkins, Julie Harris, Joan Hackett, Kent Smith, and Robert H. Harris, with Molly Dodd rounding out the ensemble.
Is How Awful About Allan (1970) worth watching?
As a short-form psychological thriller, it holds up remarkably well thanks to its tight pacing and strong performances—especially Perkins' portrayal of a man unraveling under pressure. Fans of vintage horror or character-driven suspense will find it rewarding.
How long is How Awful About Allan?
The film runs for 74 minutes.
About How Awful About Allan (1970): Psychological Horror Classic — Full Details
Curtis Harrington's *How Awful About Allan (1970)* delivers a chilling dive into psychological horror as a fragile man returns home after months in a mental institution, only to find his new life haunted by an unsettling boarder. Anthony Perkins stars as Allan, whose fragile psyche unravels under the weight of paranoia and dread, while Julie Harris shines as his steadfast but troubled sister. The film thrives on its claustrophobic atmosphere, weaving a tale of suspicion and unseen menace that lingers long after the credits roll.
A product of its era, this TV movie distinguishes itself with its tight 74-minute runtime and sharp focus on psychological torment over cheap scares. Harrington's direction crafts an eerie, almost gothic tension, amplified by Perkins' masterful performance of repressed anxiety. For fans of slow-burn thrillers, *How Awful About Allan* is a forgotten gem that balances suspense with emotional depth.