Is Mortuary Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Mortuary is likely a skip if you enjoy Horror movies.
It features a runtime of 93 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Mortuary Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1982, Mortuary emerges as a significant entry in the Horror domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A young woman investigates the seemingly accidental death of her father, revealing many unsettling secrets and putting her in mortal danger. Unlike standard genre fare, Mortuary 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 Mortuary features a noteworthy lineup led by Mary Elizabeth McDonough . Supported by the likes of David Wallace and Bill Paxton , 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 Mortuary (1982) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.2/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Mortuary Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Mortuary 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.
Mortuary Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Mortuary 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 Mortuary reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Mortuary?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Advertisement
Full Cast & Crew of Mortuary
- Mary Elizabeth McDonough – Christie Parson
- David Wallace – Greg Stevens
- Bill Paxton – Paul Andrews
- Lynda Day George – Eve Parson
- Christopher George – Hank Andrews
Top Highlights
Mary Elizabeth McDonoughChristie Parson
David WallaceGreg Stevens
Bill PaxtonPaul Andrews
Lynda Day GeorgeEve Parson
Christopher GeorgeHank Andrews
Curt AyersJim
Bill ConklinSheriff Duncan
Donna GarrettMrs. Andrews
Greg KayeMark
Denis MandelJosh
Where to Watch Mortuary Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Sun Nxt
Eros Now Select Apple TV ChannelParents Guide & Age Rating
Mortuary is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains frightening scenes, intense suspense. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.2/10, and global collection metrics, Mortuary stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1982 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mortuary movie hit or flop?
Mortuary has received mixed reviews with a 5.2/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Mortuary worth watching?
Mortuary is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Horror movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Mortuary online?
Mortuary is currently available for streaming on Sun Nxt. You can also check for it on platforms like Sun Nxt, Eros Now Select Apple TV Channel depending on your region.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Mortuary
How Mortuary Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Mortuary
**_A black metal psycho is on the loose in sunny SoCal (not really, but sort of)_** After her father’s dubious death at his manor in Malibu, a young woman and her beau (Mary Beth McDonough & David Wysocki) trace the truth to a mortician who holds cult-like seances (Christopher George), not to mention his psychologically troubled son, an embalmer (Bill Paxton). Lynda Day George is on hand as the mother. "Mortuary" (1982/1983) starts as occult-oriented horror akin to "Midnight Offerings" (1981), which also starred Mary Beth, but it takes a different path, morphing into a horror-thriller mystery à la “The Night Strangler” (1973) with slasher elements in a mortuary/cemetery setting. The last act throws in something reminiscent of “Don’t Go in the House” (1979). "One Dark Night" (1982) also comes to mind. Speaking of “Midnight Offerings” and “The Night Strangler,” this has a made-for-TV vibe except for the explicit embalming sequences, gore and sex scene (using body doubles, of course). The score is notable in an early 80s way and unrecognizable young Paxton is a highlight with his over-the-top performance. But the weird cult bits at the beginning are curiously never elaborated on and the lights going off-and-on at the Malibu mansion is annoying padding. Nevertheless, there’s enough good here to entertain those who appreciate some of the aforementioned flicks. Beth Scheffell is notable as Bonnie at the skating rink (the blonde in the red shorts), but her role amounts to being a wallflower cameo. The film runs 1 hours, 33 minutes, and was shot in Los Angeles (cemetery and mortuary), Malibu (Christie’s house), Burbank (florist shop) and Marina del Rey (driving/plaza scenes). GRADE: B-/C+
movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
