1981’s “Delusion” (also known as “The House Where Death Lives” and boy does it ever) is an absolute gem of a movie. If you’re a fan of slow-burn psychological horror with sexual tension and psychological layering, you’ll love it.

Our story begins with young Meredith (Patricia Pearcy), a home nurse who gets a gig caring for crippled, aging Ivar Langrock, played by screen giant Joseph Cotton. Langrock, while rich enough to be surrounded by estate staff, has nonetheless had a life of tragedy. Both his sons died, and his teenage grandson is coming to live with him.

But not everything is what it seems. Someone lives in a strange, locked room in the mansion. And when the grandson arrives, we discover he’s a weirdo who grew up in a cult.

Soon people are dying. I’ve seen this film described as a “slasher,” but it’s more of a “clonker” as most people are bludgeoned to death.

Meredith herself has a tragic past. Her mother is in an asylum, and her father was a violent alcoholic.

Things proceed at just the right pace towards a satisfying conclusion. (The final twist is a bit dated, and canny viewers will recognize the Hitchcock film from which is was taken. )

I always love stories where you’re wondering if the protagonist herself has secrets, and I used that conceit both my horror novels. (Available at Amazon!)

The grandson character is played by John Dukakis, adopted son of presidential candidate Michael Dukakis. He later went on to be instrumental in the career of the boy band New Kids on the Block.

The film had a bit of a Dario Argento quality, and the soundtrack reminded of that director’s oft-used composer, the creepy prog-rock band Goblin. 

I give this my highest recommendation.