There is no blood, there is no slashing, today this would be rated “G.” But, this is the scariest movie, ever. Every time I watch this masterpiece (and I have watched it over 50 times), I see or hear something new.

The density of the black and white is incredible. The camera angles and reflection shots are unsettling. The score is appropriately terrifying, from the ringing of tiny bells to the cannon ball rocking down the hall.

The cast is excellent. The direction superb. This is horror at the peak of perfection–it is in your mind. The only thing better is to read the book by Ms. Jackson on a dark night when you are all alone, and “far from town.” As Stephen King said about Shirley Jackson, “She never had to shout.” Mr. Wise is to be credited with bringing her whispers to the screen.