“The Ghoul” is a film novelization written by Guy N. Smith, based on the 1975 British horror film of the same name. The film was directed by Freddie Francis and starred Peter Cushing, Veronica Carlson, and John Hurt.
Plot Summary
The story revolves around Professor Clement Armstrong, played by Peter Cushing, who is an expert on the occult. He is called upon to investigate the mysterious death of a wealthy man’s wife. The circumstances surrounding her demise lead Armstrong to suspect that she may have been the victim of a curse or supernatural forces.
As Armstrong delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a dark secret hidden within the deceased woman’s family history. It becomes clear that an ancient curse has been unleashed, and Armstrong must race against time to stop the malevolent force before it claims more lives.
Themes and Style
- Occult Horror: “The Ghoul” explores themes of the occult, curses, and supernatural evil, with the protagonist battling against the forces of darkness and corruption.
- Mystery and Suspense: The novelization is characterized by its suspenseful plot and mysterious atmosphere, as the characters unravel the secrets surrounding the death of the woman and confront the ancient evil that lies behind it.
- Classic Horror: The story pays homage to classic horror tropes and features, with nods to gothic horror and traditional monster movies.
Reception
The film “The Ghoul” received mixed reviews upon its release, but it gained a cult following over the years, particularly among fans of British horror cinema. The novelization by Guy N. Smith allowed fans to further immerse themselves in the story and provided additional depth to the characters and plot.
Author Background
Guy N. Smith was a prolific British author known primarily for his horror fiction. With over 100 novels to his name, Smith’s works often featured elements of the supernatural, the macabre, and the grotesque. He gained widespread recognition for his ability to craft thrilling and suspenseful horror narratives.
Legacy
“The Ghoul” novelization remains a beloved addition to Smith’s body of work, offering fans of the film a chance to revisit the story in literary form. Its enduring popularity speaks to Smith’s talent for adapting cinematic tales into gripping and atmospheric novels.