The Haunting

The Haunting

Year: 1963

Runtime: 112 min

Language: English

Director: Robert Wise

Horror

As Alexis inherits her late mother's estate, the secrets of her troubled past begin to unravel, unleashing a malevolent force that imperils all she holds dear. A terrifying descent into darkness ensues, blurring the lines between reality and horror.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen The Haunting yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – The Haunting (1963)
Explore the full timeline and setting of The Haunting (1963). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The events of the film take place in a timeless yet contemporary setting, where past tragedies haunt a present investigation. While specific years aren't highlighted, the house's history stretches back decades, intertwined with themes of loss and madness echoing through its walls.

Location

Hill House, New England

Hill House is an ominous mansion situated in New England, known for its dark, haunted history and eerie architecture. Surrounded by a stone wall, it retains a menacing facade featuring steep roofs and ornate details. The house's reputation as a site of supernatural occurrences makes it a focal point for those seeking to explore its mysteries.

🏰 Haunted House 🌲 Nature

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:34

Main Characters – The Haunting (1963)
Meet the key characters of The Haunting (1963), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Dr. John Markway (Richard Johnson)

Dr. Markway is a determined and ambitious paranormal researcher eager to uncover the mysteries of Hill House. His charm and intellect draw the attention of his assistants, but his attachment to the house's dark history raises questions about his motivations. He balances scientific curiosity with a personal connection to the idea of the supernatural.

🧑‍🔬 Researcher 📚 Scholar

Eleanor Lance (Julie Harris)

Eleanor is a fragile character marked by years of caretaking an invalid mother, resulting in a deep yearning for independence and acceptance. As she grapples with her insecurities, she becomes entwined with the house's supernatural elements, which both terrify and enrapture her. Her complex emotional landscape drives much of the film's tension.

👩‍🦰 Vulnerable 🙍‍♀️ Social Outcast

Theodora (Claire Bloom)

Theodora is a confident and enigmatic figure who possesses the gift of ESP. Her flirtatious and bold personality stands in stark contrast to Eleanor’s meekness. She navigates the complexities of her own identity while forming a pivotal relationship with Eleanor, becoming a source of both comfort and challenge for her.

✨ Mysterious 💃 Charismatic

Luke Sannerson (Russ Tamblyn)

Luke, the potential heir to Hill House, embodies skepticism and a somewhat reckless ambition. More interested in financial gain than the supernatural aspects of the house, he often clashes with the other characters. His pragmatic nature adds a layer of conflict and tension within the haunted setting.

🤑 Opportunist 🔍 Skeptic

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:34

Major Themes – The Haunting (1963)
Explore the central themes of The Haunting (1963), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

👻 Supernatural

The central theme revolves around the supernatural, as the characters encounter inexplicable events and a haunting presence within Hill House. Their experiences force them to confront their own fears and vulnerabilities. The film explores the psychological effects of the haunting on each character, blurring the lines between reality and illusion.

💔 Isolation

Isolation emerges as a key theme, with characters seeking solace from their troubled pasts, only to find themselves trapped in the terrifying ambiance of Hill House. Eleanor's journey reflects her longing for belonging, set against the backdrop of the house's oppressive solitude. The sense of being cut off from the outside world amplifies the emotional turmoil they experience.

Last Updated: January 18, 2025 at 14:34

Similar Movies to The Haunting
Discover movies like The Haunting that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.