Cat People (1942)
)
)
)
“I like the dark. It's friendly”
Overview
A moody work of restrained suspense, Jacques Tourneur's classic Cat People was hugely influential on contemporary horror. Serbian-born Irena Dubrovna (Simone Simon) is working as a fashion illustrator in Manhattan when she falls for Oliver (Kent Smith). Despite her desire to lead a normal married life Irena believes that, because of an ancient curse, any physical intimacy with her husband will turn her into a monster and lead to both their deaths.
Why You Should See This Film
In an attempt to compete with Universal's profitable brand of monsters on an incredibly tight budget, RKO Pictures employed the director/producer team of Tourneur and Val Lewton to deliver a picture that would thrill audiences without the need for big name stars and elaborate sets. Out of necessity Cat People is grounded in contemporary New York City, relying on implication and shadowy psycho-sexual drama, creating the blueprint for a sophisticated new type of horror film.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)