SYMPTOMS (1974), a rare lesbian psychological thriller

“Reclusive and emotionally fragile Helen invites her friend Anne to stay at her isolated estate in the English countryside. Soon enough, Helen’s grip on reality deteriorates amid escalating paranoia and an unrequited romantic obsession.”

• Directed by: José Ramón Larraz
• Screenplay by: José Ramón Larraz and Stanley Miller
• With: Angela Pleasence, Peter Vaughan, Lorna Heilbron, and Nancy Nevinson
• Runtime: 1 hour 32 mins
• Where to watch: Available via rare archive stream at Available to stream at https://bit.ly/47dYsdY or https://ok.ru/video/2451837291094

In Memoriam: Angela Pleasence (1941-2026)
"Symptoms" highlights the distinctive performance of Angela Pleasence, daughter of horror legend Donald Pleasence, Known for her piercing gaze and ethereal presence, she carved out a small niche in 1970s British horror with Symptoms—the official British entry at the 1974 Cannes Film Festival—and From Beyond the Grave (1974). Although her career primarily unfolded on stage and British TV, this is one of her rare starring roles in cinema.

• Note: Most participants watch the film beforehand, but you are entirely welcome to log on and just listen to the discussion if you haven't seen it yet.