‘Die Screaming Marianne’ Blu-ray Review (88 Films)

Stars: Susan George, Leo Genn, Judy Huxtable, Barry Evans, Christopher Sandford, Alan Curtis | Written by Murray Smith | Directed by Pete Walker

Directed by Pete Walker, Die Screaming Marianne is a British exploitation thriller that blends psychological tension with elements of a family drama and a hint of sleazy horror. The film revolves around Marianne (Susan George), a go-go dancer on the run from her corrupt father, a retired judge (Leo Genn), and her manipulative half-sister Hildegarde (Judy Huxtable), both of whom are desperate to get their hands on a hidden fortune that Marianne unknowingly controls.

The film’s storyline is thin but serviceable, with much of its appeal relying on the suspense and cat-and-mouse chase between Marianne and her family. Marianne’s dance sequences, while not particularly central to the plot, set a suggestive tone that emphasizes her vulnerability. The Mediterranean setting adds a layer of exotic danger, but the film suffers from a sluggish pace, with several sequences dragging unnecessarily. The script often feels undercooked, failing to fully explore the emotional depth of the characters or the moral ambiguity of the situation.

Susan George, fresh off her role in Straw Dogs (1971), delivers a solid performance as the innocent yet resourceful Marianne. She brings a certain raw energy to the role, although her character is underwritten. Leo Genn’s portrayal of the cruel, manipulative judge is perhaps the film’s most compelling feature, capturing the sinister allure of a villain with high social standing. Judy Huxtable, as the unhinged Hildegarde, is memorable in her over-the-top intensity, though her character occasionally borders on melodrama.

Pete Walker is known for his exploitation cinema, and Die Screaming Marianne feels like a precursor to his later, more infamous horror films. The film has a sleazy, voyeuristic edge, but it never fully commits to either being a suspenseful thriller or a gory horror flick. The tension builds slowly but often fizzles out, leaving the audience unsure of whether they’re watching a family drama or a gritty crime caper.

Die Screaming Marianne is a curious relic of early 1970s British exploitation cinema, notable mostly for its performances, particularly Susan George’s, and the occasional moment of stylish direction. However, it lacks the cohesion and suspense to be a truly effective thriller. Fans of Walker’s later, more provocative works might find it an interesting watch to see how his style evolved, but for general audiences, it may feel too disjointed and slow to leave a lasting impression.

Special Features:

• Audio Commentary with Film Critic Samm Deighan
• Audio commentary with director/producer Pete Walker, and English Gothic Author Jonathan Rigby (2006)
• Tales of Terror – An Interview with Director Pete Walker
• Norman Langley on Die Screaming, Marianne
• Original Trailer
• Reversible cover with new art by Sean Longmore

**½  2.5/5

After being released as part of the Pete Walker Collection, Die Screaming Marianne is out now on standalone Blu-ray from 88 Films.