As a scholar of Gothic literature and cinema, I find myself utterly captivated by the profound exploration of repression and identity in James Whale’s 1930 masterpiece, “The Old Dark House.” Having spent years delving into the hidden narratives within classic texts, I can attest to the striking parallels between the human psyche and the decaying mansion that serves as the film’s backdrop.
In recent decades, some outstanding horror films with strong LGBTQ+ themes have emerged, such as “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” “Jennifer’s Body,” and “Bit.” However, before the sexual revolution of the 1970s, these themes were often subtly portrayed in bolder pre-Code movies like “The Old Dark House.” Despite initially appearing to be just a campy horror film about strangers seeking shelter in an unusual family’s home, you might be surprised by the deep, queer undertones woven throughout the scenes.
The Film’s Director Was Boldly Out In The ’30s
James Whale, a notable figure in cinema, gained significant recognition through his exceptional horror productions such as “Frankenstein,” “The Invisible Man,” and “The Bride of Frankenstein.” Interestingly, these timeless horror flicks share an underlying theme that mirrors the LGBTQ+ community’s experiences – themes like seclusion, repression, and identification with those on society’s outskirts.
In the 1930s, a British filmmaker openly identified as gay while gaining prominence, an uncommon sight at the time. He subtly integrated LGBTQ+ themes in his films, communicating covert messages to viewers about the community’s challenges against societal heteronormative beliefs. James Whale used the horror-comedy film The Old Dark House as a platform, where a diverse group of strangers seek refuge in the bizarre Femm family’s dilapidated country home during a storm. Through this movie, audiences are exposed to characters who defy conventional gender roles and experience suppression due to their differences from societal norms.
Each Femm Family Member Has A Little Queer Spark
Each member of the Femm family showcases distinctive personality quirks and a touch of unconventional charm, with Horace Femm, the head of the household, standing out as an exceptional example. Unlike conventional male characters from the 1930s who are tough, somber, and dominant, Horace is strikingly different. He’s submissive, particular, and prefers other male characters to venture into frightening rooms within his home.
Horace’s sibling, Rebecca, shares the role of an outsider and seems to distance herself from women who are admired or desired, such as her late sister Rachel and guest Margaret (portrayed by Gloria Stuart from the movie “Titanic”). However, it could be seen that Rebecca’s aversion towards female sexuality might stem from her unresolved personal issues related to her queer identity. Given her preference for seclusion, she tends to impose this solitary lifestyle upon other women as well.
Rebecca and Horace have an older brother named Saul who’s been kept confined in the attic due to his destructive pyromania. This isolation serves as a metaphor for the lengths people go to conceal what society deems unacceptable. However, upon his release, Saul’s repressed anger erupts violently. Notably, Sir Roderick Femm, the family head (portrayed by actress Elspeth Dudgeon), can be seen as a character with ambiguous gender identity. Likewise, he is secluded in a hidden room within the house, weakened, frail, and virtually skeletal.
There’s Goth Vibes With A Side Of Rebellion
Although the Welsh countryside manor might not mirror the spooky settings from top-tier horror films, it retains an unsettling atmosphere due to its enigmatic chambers and inhabitants. In both Gothic literature and films, there’s often a lurking presence of forbidden desires, apprehensions, and hidden truths within the surroundings.
In a secluded, socially concealed location lies the old house where the enigmatic Femm family resides, their minds cloaked in repression. Much like secret chambers within this dwelling, the family’s past is shrouded in mystery. The gothic ambiance of “The Old Dark House” underscores the consequences of unleashing long-suppressed emotions and secrets.
As the storm confines the five wanderers within that dwelling, the residents of Femm House grapple with their own mental prisons. Horace embodies the stifled masculinity, failing to match the vigor and decisiveness demonstrated by other male figures in his household. Rebecca, on the other hand, suppresses her ability to connect with others emotionally or physically, leading to her disdain for those who openly embrace their sexuality. Sir Roderick’s hidden identity, at odds with traditional gender roles, forces him into a secluded chamber. Saul, confined to an attic and yearning for freedom, symbolizes the rebellious Gothic theme that what is suppressed will eventually break free from its hiding place.
The Straight Couples Are Straight-Up Repressed
As I’m drawn into the story, I can’t help but notice the unusual dynamic between the new acquaintances – Philip and Margaret Waverton, Roger Penderel, and Sir William and Gladys Perkins. It’s clear that while they may share a common bond, their relationships are not exactly brimming with warmth and affection. Instead, it seems as though each character harbors unspoken feelings that remain hidden beneath the surface.
As a devoted admirer, I must confess that the affection between the Waverton couple seems to be present, yet it feels devoid of warmth and awkwardly expressed. It seems Philip adopts an emotionally distant demeanor, perhaps as a means to uphold his masculine image.
Later on, we have Roger Penderel, a man who employs humor as a barrier to conceal any emotional vulnerability he might develop towards those he gets close to. However, this dynamic shifts when he encounters Gladys Perkins, a chorus girl who arrives at the country house with Sir William. Despite their relationship being platonic, she confesses to Roger that she’s with him primarily due to his financial security and stability, masking her anxiety about potential poverty.
Straight couples and the unconventional Femm family, both enclosed within the house during the storm, are equally harboring hidden feelings due to their repression. As everyone spends the night confined in the same dwelling, the emotions they’ve suppressed can only be contained for a limited time.
The Mansion’s “Closet” Of Secrets And Repression
In Gothic stories and films, an ancient manor often symbolizes the psyche of its inhabitants, similar to the portrayal in “Jane Eyre,” “Rebecca,” and “The Innocents.” The Femm family’s seclusion from the world outside mirrors how suppression can gradually erode a person. The ominous hallways and concealed chambers hint at numerous secrets hidden within their isolated family, which they may choose to bury or forget.
The confinement of Saul within the attic symbolizes the Femm family’s most profound secret – their brother’s pyromaniac tendencies. By secluding him in the realm of concealment and repression, they believe that locking him up is the sole means to retain control over his uniqueness compared to others. However, as with all suppression, keeping something hidden eventually leads to a feeling of intense pressure, as if ready to burst forth.
Morgan, a strong and silent butler, often retreats to the basement to let go of his emotions which are usually bottled up. Since he starts off as submissive in the pre-Code movie, the arrival of Margaret provides him with a chance to express his hidden sexual desires, transforming him into an unrestrained, passionate figure.
“The Hidden Tales of the Ancient Haunted Mansion
If you’re intrigued about how the 1930s queer culture is portrayed in the horror-comedy movie, “The Old Dark House,” you can watch it for free on Tubi or YouTube.
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-10-01 12:07