31 Days of Halloween: Myth Meets Monster

Gargoyles (1972)

******* (7 out of 10 stars)
Starring: Cornel Wilde, Jennifer Salt, Grayson Hall, Bernie Casey.
“Oh. Don’t worry, dear. It gets worse.”—Dr. Mercer Boley

Gargoyles is a unique 70s offering into the horror genre, blending legend and mythology with a traditional monster movie setup. An isolated desert, where an anthropologist and his daughter must face ancient creatures, in the desolate lonely backdrop. This setup immediately immerses the audience in a world where legend and reality collide, setting the stage for a strange and unlikely narrative.

Cornel Wilde and Jennifer Salt take on the central roles with conviction. Wilde’s portrayal of the determined yet skeptical anthropologist provides a solid anchor for the film, while Salt’s performance as his curious and brave daughter adds a dynamic balance. Their on-screen chemistry, mixing peerless courage, academic responsibility, with a dash of family loyalty helps maintain interest as the plot unfolds.

Visually, Gargoyles stands out for its practical effects. While modern audiences will certainly find these effects dated, they bring a tangible quality to the creatures that CGI often lacks. These demonic monsters, with their menacing designs, effectively convey a sense of dread that permeates the film.

However, the cinematography is a mixed bag. Some scenes expertly capture the eerie beauty of the desert landscape, enhancing the film’s suspenseful atmosphere. Yet, there are periods where the visual execution falls short, suggesting more incidental success than artistic intent, disrupting the film’s overall tension. This was a common flaw in many low budget films of the era but does not prevent it from occupying its own perch in the 70s horror filmscape.

The storyline is straightforward, adhering to the classic monster movie formula. While it lacks significant twists, the simplicity works in its favor, allowing the film to focus on its core elements without unnecessary distractions. This predictability may not appeal to everyone, but it contributes to the film’s nostalgic charm. It was very impactful to me as a child, opening me up to movies beyond the black and white shock theater fare I had been a fan of, since I could change a channel for myself.

Overall, Gargoyles delivers a compelling blend of myth and horror, with more societal threat and story than you may think, making it a noteworthy piece for enthusiasts of vintage cinema. Its dedication to practical effects and classic storytelling provides a refreshing look back at a time when horror relied more on atmosphere and character than on digital wizardry. The final ingredient to a good horror tale, is your own imagination, so break it out of the box and bring it along.