In the realm of classic horror anthologies, Twice Told Tales (1963) is a film that unfortunately doesn’t quite hit the mark. Directed by Sidney Salkow, this adaptation of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s stories stars Vincent Price, a legend in the horror genre. While the premise of bringing Hawthorne’s eerie tales to life is promising, the execution leaves much to be desired.

The film comprises three segments: “Dr. Heidegger’s Experiment,” “Rappaccini’s Daughter,” and “The House of the Seven Gables.” Each story is meant to delve into the supernatural and explore themes of obsession, betrayal, and dark secrets. However, despite the intriguing source material, the film struggles to maintain a compelling narrative throughout its runtime.

One of the most noticeable issues is the pacing. Each segment drags on longer than necessary, diminishing the suspense and tension that should be building. Instead of gripping the audience, the stories meander, making it difficult to stay engaged. The dialogue, while attempting to stay true to Hawthorne’s style, often comes across as stilted and overly melodramatic, further pulling viewers out of the experience.

Vincent Price, usually a commanding presence, seems somewhat underutilized in this film. His performances, while competent, lack the flair and intensity that he is known for. The supporting cast, including Sebastian Cabot and Beverly Garland, do their best with the material, but their efforts are hampered by the film’s overall lack of energy and direction.

Visually, Twice Told Tales fails to create the atmospheric dread one might expect from Hawthorne’s works. The sets and special effects are modest at best, often appearing more like stage props than elements of a haunting narrative. This, combined with uninspired cinematography, results in a film that looks dated even by the standards of the early 60s.

The thematic depth of Hawthorne’s stories, which delve into the complexities of human nature and moral dilemmas, is largely lost in translation. The film opts for a more straightforward horror approach, stripping away much of the nuance that makes the original tales so compelling. As a result, what could have been a thought-provoking anthology feels more like a series of missed opportunities.

In conclusion, Twice Told Tales (1963) is a film that falls short of its potential. Despite the presence of Vincent Price and the rich source material, the movie is hampered by poor pacing, lackluster visuals, and an overall sense of mediocrity. While it may hold some nostalgic value for fans of classic horror, it ultimately serves as a reminder that not all literary adaptations can capture the magic of their written counterparts.

• Saul Muerte