CHARLESTON, WV – The 1955 film “The Night of the Hunter,” adapted from Davis Grubb’s 1953 novel, is based on a true story of a serial killer in West Virginia. Actor Charles Laughton directed the film, which was set and shot in West Virginia.
The story starts by introducing Harry Powell, played by Robert Mitchum, a self-proclaimed preacher with “LOVE” and “HATE” knuckle tattoos. His character is based on the notorious “West Virginia Bluebeard,” Harry Powers, an immigrant who married and killed multiple women in the state.
Based on true events, the film brings to life the eerie tale of Harry Powell’s relentless pursuit of buried money. The character’s storyline mirrors the real-life crimes of Harry Powers, one of West Virginia’s most infamous serial killers.
Powers was convicted of killing five people, including Asta Eicher and her children, as well as Dorothy Lemke, all of whom he lured with the promise of marriage and wealth. Following a five-day trial, Powers was convicted and executed at the Moundsville State Penitentiary in 1932.
Despite being a critical and commercial failure upon its release, “The Night of the Hunter” has gained recognition as a classic thriller and horror film. It has not only inspired a generation of horror and non-horror directors, including William Friedkin and Martin Scorsese, but has also earned praise from renowned film critic Roger Ebert, who described it as “one of the greatest of all American films.”
For viewers interested in experiencing this chilling film, it is readily available for rental on most platforms, or as a Blu-Ray and DVD copy released by The Criterion Collection.