Giallo Spotlight: "The House That Screamed"

Join Movie Club Member Kyle C. for the next movie in his giallo series.
Here's how it works:

1. We will be meeting at Dot's Cafe, 2521 SE Clinton St., on Sunday, June 1 from 4-6pm
2. Grab some food and drinks and we'll spend some time discussing this masterpiece. (NOTE: Just like a book club, we watch the movie before we meet, streaming links below).

Movie Spotlight:

The House That Screamed (1969), also known as La residencia, is a Spanish horror film directed by Narciso Ibáñez Serrador. Set in a strict boarding school for young women in 19th-century France, the story follows Señora Fourneau, the authoritarian headmistress who enforces rigid discipline among her students.

As new student Teresa arrives, she quickly senses that something is off—students mysteriously disappear, tensions rise, and the oppressive atmosphere becomes suffocating. Meanwhile, Luis, the headmistress’s son, is kept isolated from the girls, with his mother insisting that none of them are good enough for him.

The film is a slow-burning Gothic thriller, blending psychological horror with eerie suspense. Its haunting atmosphere, unsettling themes, and methodical pacing make it a precursor to later slasher films, influencing works like Suspiria and Pieces.

Tips:

1. Haven't seen the movie in a while? You're in for a treat - try to watch the movie sometime before we meet (Streaming Options). Just like a book club we don't watch the movie at our meetup, just discuss it. You don't have to watch the movie to join us, but it'll be more fun if you can.
2. I usually take a few notes while I watch to keep from forgetting the most interesting stuff. If you think of some interesting discussion topics while you watch, bring 'em with you!
3. We'll decide on our next giallo movie to watch! Come with suggestions.

Are you not that familiar with the giallo genre? Read the Wikipedia entry to learn more. Is there a giallo you'd like to propose the group watch and discuss next? Here's a comprehensive list of Italian giallos along with films influenced by the genre. Maybe there's a film you've heard about but needed an excuse to see--come join us for discussion & make a suggestion!

Coming to the group for the first time, but interested in movies previously watched & discussed? Here's a list of all previous giallos watched and discussed by the group (with group rating)!

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