Strait-Jacket, directed by William Castle and starring Joan Crawford, is a campy yet chilling entry in the "psycho-biddy" subgenre of horror. The film follows Lucy Harbin (Crawford), who is released from a mental institution 20 years after decapitating her husband and his lover with an axe. As she tries to reconnect with her daughter (Diane Baker), a new series of gruesome murders suggests that Lucy may not be as rehabilitated as she seems.
Crawford delivers an over-the-top but captivating performance, balancing fragility with moments of manic intensity. Castle, known for his theatrical style, uses sharp editing and shadowy cinematography to create a sense of unease. The screenplay by Robert Bloch (of Psycho fame) adds layers of psychological tension and a twisty plot that keeps the audience guessing.
While Strait-Jacket has its share of melodrama and schlock, it’s also genuinely entertaining, with enough suspense and shock value to make it a cult classic. Crawford’s performance alone makes it worth watching, particularly for fans of vintage horror and camp cinema.
This product was added to our catalog on Friday 28 February, 2025.
