The 1963 film "The Haunting," directed by Robert Wise, is a dark, suspense-filled picture from the start. Based on Shirley Jackson's novel The Haunting of Hill House, this film clearly shows the use of a number of important elements in classic horror films. Wise incorporates the use of music, by composer Humphrey Searle, to constantly follow the flow of the plot. The film immediately provokes feelings of suspense and anticipation by retelling the story of the creation of Hill House to give a historical basis to the main character, Dr. Markway, played by Richard Johnson.
             The main characters of this film embark on a difficult journey, an experiment as described by Dr. Markway. Markway unites 3 other people to explore to psychic phenomenon existing in the Hill House. As they arrive one by one, they are greeted by the expressionless housekeeper, Mrs. Dudley, who is clear to let guests of the house know that she will not stay after dark. First to arrive is Eleanor, a frightened woman who comes at the request of Markway, but believes she does not know why she has been asked to come. Within moments, Mrs. Dudley is busy greeting Theodora, Markway's second guest, a specialist in psychic phenomenon who immediately attempts to calm
             Eleanor. Markway and his last assistant, Luke arrives shortly thereafter and Markway explains his plan over dinner.
             Dr. Markway tells the group that they are all there to experience the paranormal activities in the house. Although it is clear why the others have been summoned, Eleanor contends that she has had no paranormal experience. Markway recounts the story of her childhood, when rocks rained on her families house for three days. Eleanor denies the experience, but her reaction to Markway leads the viewer to believe he has found the right person. Although Dr. Markway insists that it is his plan to explore the paranormal in the house, it is clearly his intention to research his "guests" reactions to the horrif...