Is Haunts Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Haunts is likely a skip if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 97 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Haunts Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1976, Haunts emerges as a significant entry in the Horror domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A woman is haunted by psychosexual nightmares while a maniac commits a series of brutal scissor murders. Unlike standard genre fare, Haunts attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Haunts features a noteworthy lineup led by May Britt . Supported by the likes of Cameron Mitchell and Aldo Ray , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Haunts (1976) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.9/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Haunts Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Haunts is a Horror film that crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Haunts Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Haunts attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Haunts reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Haunts?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Haunts
- May Britt – Ingrid Swenson
- Cameron Mitchell – Carl Henderson
- Aldo Ray – Sheriff Peterson
- William Gray Espy – Frankie
- Ben Hammer – Vicar
Top Highlights
May BrittIngrid Swenson
Cameron MitchellCarl Henderson
Aldo RaySheriff Peterson
William Gray EspyFrankie
Ben HammerVicar
E.J. AndréDoc
Kendall JacksonLoretta Peterson
Susan NohrNell
Robert HippardBill Spry
Don DolanHellman
Where to Watch Haunts Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoParents Guide & Age Rating
Haunts is rated PG. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense. It is generally suitable for all ages.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.9/10, and global collection metrics, Haunts stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1976 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Haunts movie hit or flop?
Haunts is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.9/10 and lower collections.
Is Haunts worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.9/10, Haunts may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Haunts online?
Haunts may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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How Haunts Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Haunts
**_When sins of the past haunt you_** After a shocking death in a small coastal town in Northern California, a single woman living on a small farm (May Britt) is subsequently attacked. The sheriff (Aldo Ray) sets his eyes on a “bad boy” short-order cook (William Gray Espy) and a new guy from Baltimore, but maybe the culprit is the woman’s weird uncle (Cameron Mitchell). "Haunts" (1976) was made by the writer/director of the later “Beyond Evil” and “Graduation Day.” The inclusion of Mitchell brings to mind the soon-to-come “The Toolbox Murders” and "Without Warning.” Yet don’t expect a conventional horror or slasher. This is more along the lines of “The Shuttered Room” and “Let’s Scare Jessica to Death” mixed with a little “Rachel, Rachel.” It’s a moody, dark psychological study that has the confidence to take its time, effectively fleshing out several characters in Anytown, America. It should be appreciated by those who liked the above movies and other psychological horror flicks from that era, like "Nightmare" (1981) and "Don't Go in the House" (1979). If some things strike a “Yeah, right” chord, hold on, because all is explained at the end (albeit ambiguously). May Britt hadn’t performed in a movie for 16 years before resurfacing in this one. She played the sultry German wife of Brando's captain in “The Young Lions” and was very effective in the role. Here, her character is conservative and modest, plagued by things that transpired in her childhood. It was May’s final film. It runs 1 hour, 36 minutes, and was shot in Mendocino, California, which is 150 miles north of the Bay Area. GRADE: B-
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
