“Deranged,” a 1974 film directed by Jeff Gillen and Alan Ormsby, stands out as a disturbing yet compelling entry in the horror genre. Its unique docudrama approach to storytelling and its inspiration from the true-life events of Ed Gein lend it a chilling authenticity. The film’s unhinged narrative style further amplifies its unsettling impact, making it a notable, if not widely celebrated, piece of 1970s horror cinema.

One of the most striking aspects of “Deranged” is its docudrama format, which blends documentary-style narration with dramatized scenes. This approach sets it apart from other horror films of the era, providing a veneer of realism that heightens the sense of dread. The film is presented as a factual account, complete with a narrator who guides the audience through the grisly events. This method not only grounds the horror in a semblance of reality but also creates an eerie sense of voyeurism, as if the viewers are watching a real-life case unfold before their eyes.

The use of the docudrama format is particularly effective in “Deranged” because it bridges the gap between fiction and reality. It allows the filmmakers to delve into the psychological complexities of the protagonist while maintaining a journalistic tone. This blend of narrative techniques enhances the film’s credibility and immerses the audience in the macabre world of the central character, Ezra Cobb.

“Deranged” draws its inspiration from the infamous case of Ed Gein, a Wisconsin farmer whose gruesome crimes in the 1950s shocked the nation. Gein’s macabre acts, including grave robbing and the creation of trophies from human remains, have influenced numerous horror films, most notably “Psycho” (1960) and “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” (1974). “Deranged” stays closer to the true details of Gein’s life than many of its contemporaries, providing a more direct portrayal of his horrifying deeds.

Ezra Cobb, the film’s protagonist, is a thinly veiled representation of Gein. Roberts Blossom’s portrayal of Cobb is both haunting and sympathetic, capturing the complexity of a man driven to madness by a domineering mother and profound isolation. Blossom’s performance is a highlight of the film, bringing depth and nuance to a character that could easily have been rendered as a mere monster. His ability to convey both the pitiable and terrifying aspects of Cobb’s personality makes the character more relatable and, consequently, more frightening.

The narrative style of “Deranged” is as unhinged as its protagonist, oscillating between dark humor and stark horror. The film’s tone shifts unpredictably, reflecting the erratic nature of Cobb’s psyche. This approach keeps the audience on edge, never allowing them to settle into a comfortable rhythm. The scenes depicting Cobb’s gruesome activities are interspersed with moments of bizarre levity, creating a disorienting effect that mirrors the protagonist’s disturbed mind.

The film does not shy away from graphic depictions of Cobb’s crimes, but it also explores the psychological underpinnings of his actions. The result is a narrative that is both shocking and thought-provoking. The filmmakers’ willingness to delve into the morbid details of Gein’s life while maintaining a degree of empathy for the character of Cobb sets “Deranged” apart from more exploitative horror films.

The Prognosis:

“Deranged” remains a compelling and unsettling film that effectively uses its docudrama format to explore the real-life horrors of Ed Gein. The film’s inspiration from true events, combined with its unhinged narrative style, creates a disturbing yet immersive experience. Roberts Blossom’s standout performance as Ezra Cobb adds depth and complexity to a character based on one of America’s most notorious criminals. While “Deranged” may not have achieved the same level of acclaim as other horror films inspired by Gein, its unique approach and chilling authenticity make it a significant entry in the genre.

• Saul Muerte