The film centers around a young woman who accepts a job caring for an unusual child in rural Southern California. Filmed largely toward the end of 1973, it was made on a budget of just $30,000—equivalent to roughly $180,000 today—and wasn’t finished until 1976 because of ongoing production setbacks, which is why it didn't come out until 1977. The story unfolds during the 1930s, but there’s a peculiar sense that it’s actually taking place in the 1970s; Len’s hairstyle and clothing choices, along with the obvious presence of power lines, contribute to this feeling. Even the main character (Laurel Barnett) and the girl (Rosalie Cole) seem characteristic of the ’70s era, regardless of what they're wearing. A pervasive unsettling atmosphere is enhanced by an unusual musical score that recalls “The Shuttered Room,” combined with elements from films like “Terror at Red Wolf Inn,” “Lemora,” “Messiah of Evil” and “Night of the Living Dead.” There’s also a suggestion of telekinetic ability, which predates "Carrie" by two and a half years (based on filming dates, not release dates). The dialogue was noticeably redone in post-production, further contributing to the film's strange quality. The special effects makeup is quite good given the circumstances, but the final section drags on, with Alicianne’s constant screaming feeling unrealistic and unnecessary—it’s hard to imagine a strong, independent woman like her behaving that way during the Depression. Consider this among the weaker films mentioned because of its low budget, although it's clear there was artistic vision at work here. The running time is 1 hour and 23 minutes. Filming occurred in Los Angeles County, specifically Culver City, Montebello, and Boyle Heights (the interiors of Mrs. Whitfield’s house and the Nordon home), with the primary outdoor setting being the Standard Oil yard located along La Cienega Blvd in Ladera Heights, which is approximately 8 to 10 miles southwest of Hollywood. GRADE: B-

Source on TMDB