Raven, The (1963)

The Raven (1963), directed by Roger Corman.

Extremely slow moving, tepid horror comedy. The score is painful Mickey Mouse circus music.

Said to be popular at the time. I'm guessing that audiences, enjoying the Corman horror series to that point, were entertained by a comic rendition of the gothic themes.

The actors seem to be having fun; they contributed to the script and did some improvisation

Richard Matheson screenplay. Filmed in 15 days. Young Jack Nicholson has a good part.

Reflecting: does anyone read Jack Vance? The community of wizards and their mansions here reminds me of his Dying Earth magicians, which he often presented with a comic spin.

Available on Blu-ray with an enthusiastic commentary track and wealth of technical detail.

http://watershade.net/public/raven.jpg