Night Holds Terror, The (1955, U.S.A.)

Based on actual events, this story of armed bandits holding a young family hostage in their own home is as terrifying today as it was when it hit theatres.

The brutal characterisations by actors John Cassavetes (Rosemary’s Baby) as the tightly wound mastermind and Vince Edwards (City of Fear) as a psychotic ladies’ man, and the finely drawn tension elevate this documentary-style, low budget thriller to a first rate noir.

Also features incredible cinematography of real Southern California locations.