I saw this film back in 1982 as part of a double feature with Poltergeist. Couldn't remember the name, but finally found it and rewatched on Tubi. Not a bad movie. Could have a little bit more killing. I have a feeling the lead was cast as she looked/sounded like Sigourney Weaver. Worth a watch for sure.
shareI was impressed by it too for such an obscure flick. I suppose it could be classified as an early slasher (shot in 1981), but it's more accurately a mystery-horror with haunting remote island ambiance, sort of like "The Shuttered Room," but mixed with elements of moody coastal horror, such as "The Fog." ("I Still Know What You Did Last Summer" took the stormy island setting to forge a more conventional slasher fifteen years later).
The filmmaking is top-notch for the time period, including the superb score. Carol Kottenbrook as Brooke is a highlight, lookin' good in tight jeans. Sarah Kendall shows her acting chops as the haunted protagonist. Meanwhile the titular character is diabolically hideous, but you barely get to see him. Yet there's a twist and, even then, the movie's an enigma wrapped in a riddle.
Yes, the Slayer was hideous and in this case less was less. Would have like to have seen it more involved. Maybe budget constraints affected how much they could use it effectively.
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