A person exhibiting traits associated with black metal culture is causing problems in Southern California, though not literally, but in a way that suggests it. Following the questionable passing of her father at his Malibu estate, a young woman and her boyfriend (played by Mary Beth McDonough & David Wysocki) begin to uncover the reality behind what happened, leading them to a mortician who conducts rituals resembling those of a cult (Christopher George), as well as his son, an embalmer with psychological issues (Bill Paxton). Lynda Day George appears in the role of the mother. "Mortuary" (1982/1983) initially feels like occult horror similar to "Midnight Offerings" (1981), a film also featuring Mary Beth, but it eventually shifts direction, evolving into a horror-thriller mystery akin to “The Night Strangler” (1973), incorporating slasher elements within a mortuary and cemetery. The concluding portion of the movie includes something that recalls "Don’t Go in the House" (1979). "One Dark Night" (1982) also entered my thoughts while watching this. Considering “Midnight Offerings” and “The Night Strangler,” it possesses a feel characteristic of television movies, with the exception of the graphic embalming scenes, gore, and a sex scene (utilizing stand-ins). The musical score is distinctive in its early 80s style, and a very young Paxton stands out due to his exaggerated performance. However, the unusual cult aspects presented at the beginning are never fully explained, and the flickering lights at the Malibu house feel like unnecessary filler. Despite these shortcomings, there's enough quality here to amuse those who enjoy some of the films previously mentioned. Beth Scheffell is memorable as Bonnie at the skating rink (the woman in red shorts), but her appearance amounts to a brief, insignificant role. The film has a running time of 1 hour and 33 minutes and was filmed in Los Angeles (cemetery and mortuary), Malibu (Christie’s house), Burbank (florist shop) and Marina del Rey (driving/plaza scenes). GRADE: B-/C+

Source on TMDB