elidperry2000

Twisted Nerve

“Georgie likes ducks.” How is this not more widely available? The only version I was able to find online was a DVD rip of the 4x3 version. That, and the only high-definition version that’s available on physical media is only available in Australia, and it’s fucking region-locked. That’s how obscure the film is, yet this is one of the greatest British horror-thrillers of all time. When it was first released, the film was mired in controversy, particularly surrounding the portrayal of Down Syndrome (then known as mongolism) as a catalyst for the main character’s actions. The film opens with a disclaimer emphasizing that there was no scientific correlation between mongolism and psychopathy. It’s such a fascinating approach on the topic of nature vs nurture. The main character Martin lives a pampered and wealthy life. At first glance, he seems normal and well-adjusted, visiting his handicapped brother at a mental institution. But shortly thereafter, something more dubious starts to take place, and after being infatuated by a woman at a toy store named Susan, he suddenly transforms into Georgie, becoming a six year old boy trapped in the body of an adult. After innocently introducing himself to Susan, he inserts himself into her life, which becomes increasingly bothersome for her and her family. Hywell Bennett is absolutely superb as Martin/Georgie, and Hayley Mills is also just as good as Susan. It’s a truly unsettling film and a superb character study. What really adds to the film and what makes it worthwhile is Bernard Herrmann’s score, especially the main theme (which was famously used in Kill Bill: Vol. 1). It starts off really pleasant and dreamlike, and gradually builds up to a horrific crescendo.