On a small island community lives a pianist Tom Stewart who's planning to marry his wealthy girlfriend Meg Hubbard. Although after having a confrontation with his old squeeze Vi Mason on a lighthouse, Tom standbys and watches her take a fall from a loose railing. Although, Tom could have saved her, but since she said that she wouldn't let him go and marry his new girlfriend. He saw this as opportunity to get rid of her, so he could get on with his new life. But that wasn't quite the case, as now a vengeful spirit in the shape of Vi has returned to constantly interrupt Tom's plans and new life.
Poor Tom, as he has got a lot on his plate to comprehend and it doesn't seem to be getting any better. I guess he'll learn the hard way. Bert I. Gordon's "Tormented" is a pleasant surprise that sets-up a mature, atmospheric ghost story that handles itself rather sincerely, despite it's obtrusively dodgy special effects. But this factor of the film only heightens its charm and burly nature. The B-grade production might show it's cheap origins, but it makes up for it with its strangely spooky atmosphere and interestingly glum story that builds up the anxiety levels and offers up a few surprises. While, the off-coloured plot is filled with inconsistencies and slows down in spots, but I never found it boring and a change in character (and events) makes it immensely gripping. When it comes to the film's conclusion it's fairly far-fetched, but it's definitely a striking note to finish out on. I was expecting something really leaden from the cast, but to my surprise everyone was acceptably fine in their roles. Richard Carlson plays the neurotic Tom whose guilt slowly overwhelms his mind with Juli Reding's beauty turned nagging ghost Viv both turning in splendid performances. Sandy Gordon's performance is that of high quality as the innocent little girl Sandy Hubbard who gets caught up in this ordeal. Mr B.I.G.'s direction is adequate enough and makes the most out of the moody setting with the ear-splitting score managing to channel out an eerie cloud that smothers the flick. Watching this, I see that restless spirits don't make great companions and will totally drive you up the wall
that's if you have treated them unfairly though.
"Tormented" is a tolerable minor entry that does deserve more credit.
