Watch The House of the Seven Gables

The House of the Seven Gables, released in 1940, is a classic Gothic tale of revenge, greed, and redemption. Adapted from Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel of the same name, the movie tells the story of a cursed family who live in a decaying mansion in Salem, Massachusetts. George Sanders, known for his suave and sophisticated persona, stars as Jaffrey Pyncheon, a wealthy and ruthless businessman who comes into possession of the mansion after the death of his cousin. Margaret Lindsay plays Hepzibah, Jaffrey’s cousin and the last surviving member of the original Pyncheon family. Hepzibah is a spinster who lives in poverty and is reluctant to leave her ancestral home, despite the looming threat of foreclosure.

Vincent Price, in one of his earlier roles, plays Clifford, Hepzibah’s brother who was falsely accused of murder and imprisoned for decades. After his release, Clifford returns to the house, hoping to start a new life with his sister. However, the presence of Jaffrey, who is determined to exploit the family’s secrets and gain control of their fortune, threatens to upend their plans.

The movie, directed by Joe May, is a visual feast. The House of the Seven Gables is shot in striking black and white, with intricate set design, moody lighting, and eerie special effects that evoke the supernatural elements of the story. The mansion itself is a character in its own right - a labyrinthine structure that harbors dark secrets and hidden passageways.

The performances in the movie are uniformly excellent. Sanders is at his best as the conniving Jaffrey, delivering his lines with razor-sharp wit and charm. Lindsay imbues Hepzibah with a quiet dignity and vulnerability, while Price portrays Clifford with sensitivity and pathos.

The House of the Seven Gables is a quintessential Gothic melodrama that explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the corrosive effects of greed. The movie boasts a strong script, haunting visuals, and a talented cast that brings to life Hawthorne’s timeless tale. It is a must-watch for fans of classic Hollywood horror and Gothic literature.

Overall, The House of the Seven Gables is a masterpiece of its era. It combines timeless storytelling, brilliant cinematography, and a talented cast to create a classic Gothic tale that has stood the test of time. If you're a fan of old school horror, this movie should be at the top of your list.

The House of the Seven Gables is a 1940 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 54.