“The Fool Killer” (1965) starring Anthony Perkins and Edward Albert / Z-View

The Fool Killer (1965)

Director:  Servando González

Screenplay: Morton S. Fine, David Friedkin; based on THE FOOL KILLER by Helen Eustis

Stars: Anthony Perkins, Edward Albert, Henry Hull, Salome Jens, Dana Elcar, Arnold Moss and Lana Wood.

Tagline:  All the secret joys, the sudden terrors of being young and free and far from home

The Plot…

Life after the civil war could be tough.  For George Mellish who is twelve years old and an orphan, it is unbearable.  George’s foster parents took him so he could help with chores.  When George accidentally knocks over the butter churn, his step-father beats him.

That’s the final straw for George.  He gathers his few possessions and runs away.  When George hears a train approaching, he attempts to board it.  He throws his few goods onto a car and attempts to follow them.  The train is just too fast.  George trips and falls down as the train speeds away.

Now with just the clothes on his back, George continues walking.  What lies ahead is an incredible journey that may not end well. George will meet strange characters and possibly the legendary serial murderer known as The Fool Killer.

Thoughts (beware of spoilers)…

Edward Albert stars and it is his first credited role.  Edward Albert is the son of Eddie Albert. (Funny, but it would seem their names should be switched.)

The Fool Killer feels like a childhood fable.  It has a dreamlike quality with strange characters and a unique pace.  It’s part boyhood adventure, part mystery and part horror.

The Fool Killer (1965) rates 3 of 5 stars