Watch The Ceremony

The Ceremony is a psychological drama film from 1963, directed by Laurence Harvey and starring himself, Sarah Miles, and Robert Walker Jr. It is based on the novel "The Gist of It" by Stanley Ellin. The film is set in a wealthy English family and explores the complex relationships between the members of the household. The story revolves around a young couple, David and Janet, who are invited to stay at the home of David's uncle, William, a successful and powerful businessman. William lives with his two sons, Michael and Peter, and his daughter, Rachel. They are all wealthy and live a life of luxury, but under the surface, there are tensions and conflicts that threaten to tear the family apart.

David and Janet arrive at the mansion and are immediately taken aback by the coldness and formality of their hosts. They try to make the best of the situation and get to know the family, but they soon realize that something is not right. William is a controlling and domineering figure, who expects everyone to conform to his standards. Michael is a womanizer, Peter is a rebellious artist, and Rachel is a troubled young woman who is haunted by the memory of her deceased mother.

As the days go by, David and Janet witness the dysfunctional dynamics of the family and begin to feel trapped in the midst of it all. They are forced to confront their own issues and insecurities, as they struggle to make sense of the family's secrets and hidden agendas.

The Ceremony is a slow-burning drama that relies heavily on the performances of its cast. Laurence Harvey gives a powerful and nuanced portrayal of William, capturing the character's complex mix of authority, vulnerability, and inner turmoil. Sarah Miles brings a sense of vulnerability and sensitivity to Janet, as she tries to navigate the treacherous waters of the family's dynamics. Robert Walker Jr. delivers a solid performance as Michael, portraying the character's charm and recklessness, as well as his inner demons.

The film is also notable for its atmosphere and visual style. The mansion where the story takes place is a stunning and imposing setting, filled with dark corners and hidden secrets. The camera work is at times claustrophobic, amplifying the sense of tension and suffocation felt by the characters. The soundtrack, composed by John Barry, is haunting and evocative, adding to the film's eerie and unsettling tone.

Overall, The Ceremony is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the psychological complexities of family dynamics. It is a gripping drama that keeps the audience guessing until the very end, and it is a testament to the talent of its director and cast.

The Ceremony is a 1963 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 47 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.