Berserk! (1967) is a campy murder-mystery-slash-horror hybrid that stands as a curious artifact from the later career of Joan Crawford. Known for her commanding performances and status as a titan of Hollywood’s golden age, Crawford’s presence elevates what might have otherwise been a forgettable schlockfest into something undeniably watchable. While it’s not a masterpiece, Berserk! offers enough intrigue and melodrama to keep audiences entertained, even if its thrills are more tame than terrifying.

Set in the colourful yet sinister world of a traveling circus, the film wastes no time diving into its macabre premise. A series of gruesome murders rocks the troupe, leaving circus manager Monica Rivers (Crawford) to navigate the chaos while safeguarding her business—and her secrets. Crawford, in her early sixties at the time, commands the screen with her trademark mix of icy authority and simmering vulnerability. Her Monica is as ruthless as she is enigmatic, and Crawford’s sheer charisma ensures she remains the centre of attention in every scene.

That’s not to say the rest of the cast doesn’t try. Ty Hardin brings a certain swagger as the hunky new high-wire act, and Diana Dors oozes campy charm as a jealous rival performer. Yet, their characters often feel like mere pawns in a game that Crawford is orchestrating. Her ability to dominate the narrative, even in a low-budget thriller like this, is a testament to her enduring star power.

The film itself is a mixed bag. Director Jim O’Connolly crafts an entertaining but uneven narrative, often veering into melodramatic territory. The murder sequences, though strikingly staged for their time, lack the visceral edge to fully capitalise on the horror elements. Similarly, the “whodunit” aspect doesn’t quite deliver the nail-biting suspense it promises, culminating in a finale that feels more absurd than shocking.

However, Berserk! does succeed in delivering a gaudy, vibrant aesthetic that captures the circus milieu. From the bright costumes to the dramatic performances under the big top, the film revels in its setting, creating an atmosphere that is as unsettling as it is ostentatious. It’s a shame the plot can’t fully match the energy of its lead and setting, often succumbing to formulaic beats.

The Prognosis:

Berserk! is not a great film, but it’s an oddly fascinating one. Its appeal lies less in its plot and more in the chance to witness Joan Crawford embracing the genre with gusto, proving she could still mesmerise audiences even in her later years. For fans of campy horror and classic Hollywood, it’s worth a watch—if only to see the legendary Crawford working her magic under the circus tent.

• Saul Muerte