Rating: ★★★★☆

Prepare to be bewitched and bewildered by the enigmatic allure of “The City of the Dead,” a delightful journey into the occult realms of 1960s horror. Starring the iconic Christopher Lee, this film serves up a deliciously off-kilter blend of supernatural thrills and twisted storytelling that is sure to leave audiences both intrigued and entertained.

Set in the eerie town of Whitewood, Massachusetts, “The City of the Dead” follows the adventures of Nan Barlow (played with wide-eyed innocence by Venetia Stevenson), a plucky college student with a penchant for the paranormal. Determined to unravel the mysteries surrounding the town’s dark history, Nan finds herself drawn into a web of witchcraft, black magic, and sinister secrets.

What sets “The City of the Dead” apart from its contemporaries is its offbeat charm and quirky sensibilities. Director John Llewellyn Moxey infuses the film with a distinct sense of atmosphere, conjuring up a world where shadows dance and whispers linger in the air. From the hauntingly beautiful cinematography to the eerie sound design, every element of the film contributes to its otherworldly appeal.

Of course, no discussion of “The City of the Dead” would be complete without mentioning the magnetic presence of Christopher Lee. As the enigmatic Professor Alan Driscoll, Lee exudes an aura of quiet menace, his piercing gaze hinting at depths of darkness yet to be revealed. It’s a testament to Lee’s talent that he can command the screen with such effortless grace, elevating every scene he’s in to new heights of cinematic brilliance.

But perhaps the true star of “The City of the Dead” is its twisted narrative, which twists and turns like a labyrinthine maze. Just when you think you’ve unraveled its secrets, it pulls the rug out from under you, leaving you gasping for breath and begging for more. It’s a rollercoaster ride of shocks and surprises, guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Prognosis:

“The City of the Dead” is a deliciously off-kilter delight that deserves a place of honor in the pantheon of 1960s horror. With its bewitching atmosphere, magnetic performances, and twisted storytelling, it’s a film that defies expectations and delights at every turn. So, dim the lights, gather round the screen, and prepare to be transported to a world where the supernatural reigns supreme.

• Saul Muerte