American International Pictures presents the first Edgar Allan Poe-Roger Corman horror film. For being a low budget affair, the film is very atmospheric and stylish. Some young pup (fiance of the Usher sister) comes to the Usher household to visit but runs into trouble when the mysterious Usher Roderick gives him a hard time. While Vincent Price gives a hammy but delicious performance as Rod, the supporting cast is nothing to write home about. The young Mark Damon's acting gets pretty sloppy especially towards the end ("TELL ME!"). The film's pacing is slow and drags a bit despite having a very slim 79 minute runtime. The costumes, set design, atmosphere, and garish but limited effects work were all pretty impressive for what little budget Corman was working with, but ultimately I felt the characters and writing fell flat (my apologies to Richard Matheson). The meatiest part of the film is the fiery climax, but the final scene plus the slick production design just doesn't quite succeed in holding the film up. I'd recommend this one for Vincent Price or Roger Corman enthusiasts and that's about it.
6/10
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