Released in 1975, The Bedevilled remains a fascinating but flawed example of supernatural horror, blending themes of corruption, revenge, and the paranormal within a taut 90-minute runtime. Directed with atmospheric flair, the film offers plenty of intrigue but ultimately falls short of its full potential.

Set in a small, isolated town, the story unfolds after the mysterious death of the influential Lin family’s only son. Found naked and dead in the quarters of Cheng Niang, a vinbutik hostess, his demise sparks a chain of accusations. The grieving father, Old Lin, accuses Chai-Tseng Chu, Cheng Niang’s husband, of murder. Despite Tseng’s insistence on his innocence, Cheng Niang’s sudden disappearance casts doubt on his claims. When Magistrate Tang, pressured and bribed by Old Lin, condemns Tseng to death, it sets the stage for a chilling supernatural turn. Cheng Niang’s eventual return exposes not only her grief but also an unsettling truth, as ghostly apparitions begin haunting Judge Tang.

Reiko Ike, a Japanese cinema icon of the era, is sadly underutilised in The Bedevilled. Best known for her commanding presence in exploitation films, Ike’s role as Cheng Niang offers glimpses of her talent but fails to fully capitalise on her charisma. While she delivers a poignant performance in her limited screen time, the script’s focus on the convoluted male-driven narrative sidelines her character’s potential depth. It’s a missed opportunity that could have elevated the film from competent to compelling.

One of the film’s most memorable moments is the infamous severed head sequence. The chillingly practical effects, paired with an eerie sense of timing, make this scene a standout in an otherwise uneven story. The sequence’s visceral impact and macabre creativity hint at the film’s untapped potential to push boundaries and fully embrace its horror elements.

Equally effective are the ghostly hauntings of Judge Tang, whose descent into madness and guilt is depicted with growing dread. The spectral encounters are staged with a keen sense of atmosphere, enhanced by the haunting score and shadow-drenched cinematography. These moments elevate the film, even as the narrative struggles to maintain coherence.

The Prognosis:

While The Bedevilled has its moments of brilliance, its uneven execution prevents it from achieving greatness. The sidelining of Reiko Ike’s character and a reliance on predictable plot twists dilute the impact of its otherwise intriguing premise. However, its standout moments—particularly the severed head sequence and ghostly apparitions—offer glimpses of what could have been a cult classic.

The Bedevilled remains a curiosity worth revisiting for fans of 1970s supernatural horror. It’s a film that tantalises with promise but ultimately leaves viewers haunted by what might have been.

• Saul Muerte