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Review: Dark Night of the Scarecrow (1981) – A Chilling Tale of Vengeance and Small-Town Horror

Writer's picture: Bryan AlaspaBryan Alaspa

Poster for the TV horror movie Dark Night of the Scarecrow

People sometimes dismiss TV horror, but the fact is, there has never been a better time for horror on the small screen. Of course, I am older, and I remember when there were just three networks so horror on those channels was something special. These days, with all of the streaming services, the violence, nudity and gore gets ramped up. However, back before that came about, the way TV movies got the horror into viewers minds was psychological, which is always more fun.


In the pantheon of 1980s horror, Dark Night of the Scarecrow stands out as a prime example of atmospheric tension and slow-burn terror. Premiering as a made-for-TV movie in 1981, this cult classic has earned its place in horror history for delivering a chilling tale that blends revenge, supernatural elements, and the deep-rooted fears of rural America.


The Plot: A Haunting Tale of Justice


Set in a small Southern town, Dark Night of the Scarecrow begins with the tragic death of a mentally disabled man, Bubba Ritter (portrayed by Larry Drake), falsely accused of harming a young girl. The town’s local vigilantes, led by the vicious postman Otis Hazelrigg (played with sinister intensity by Charles Durning), take matters into their own hands, brutally murdering Bubba while he’s hiding inside a scarecrow’s outfit in the middle of a field. When it’s revealed that Bubba was innocent, the men escape justice through a corrupt legal system. However, vengeance soon arrives in the form of an unseen force, as the killers begin to die one by one under mysterious circumstances. The scarecrow is back, but is it Bubba's spirit, or something even darker?


The Atmosphere: Subtle, Creeping Horror


What makes Dark Night of the Scarecrow a standout horror movie is its masterful use of suspense and atmosphere. The rural setting, with its expansive fields and isolation, creates an oppressive sense of dread. Director Frank De Felitta doesn't rely on gore or jump scares; instead, he builds tension through suggestion, eerie landscapes, and the increasing paranoia of the townspeople. As each death occurs, the scarecrow looms larger as a terrifying, omnipresent figure. The audience is never sure whether the supernatural is truly at play or if the guilt and fear of the vigilantes are driving them to madness.


Performances: Charles Durning’s Menacing Role


Charles Durning’s portrayal of Otis Hazelrigg is a highlight of the film. He embodies small-town authority gone wrong, using his position to commit unspeakable acts of violence and intimidation. His performance adds depth to the horror, as the true monster is not just the scarecrow, but the corruption and malice of the town itself. Larry Drake’s depiction of Bubba, though limited in screen time, also carries a haunting weight, his innocent and tragic character fueling the emotional core of the film.


Themes: Revenge, Injustice, and Fear


At its heart, Dark Night of the Scarecrow is a story about the consequences of unchecked power and prejudice. The mob justice meted out to Bubba reflects broader societal fears—of outsiders, of people who don’t fit the norm, and of the way fear can fuel cruelty. The scarecrow serves as a symbol of vengeance and the supernatural justice that comes for those who believe themselves untouchable. In an era where slashers dominated the genre, this film stood out for its more intellectual approach, dealing with themes of guilt, morality, and karmic retribution.


Legacy: A Cult Favorite


Though Dark Night of the Scarecrow was initially a TV movie, its impact has only grown with time. The film’s restraint, combined with a strong story and performances, has made it a cult classic among horror fans. For those tired of over-the-top gore and looking for something more psychologically chilling, this film is a must-watch. Its influence can be seen in later horror movies that focus on rural isolation and supernatural vengeance.


Final Thoughts: A Quiet, Unsettling Masterpiece


Dark Night of the Scarecrow may not have the blood and bombast of some of its 80s contemporaries, but it more than makes up for it with atmosphere, tension, and a slow-burn narrative that lingers long after the credits roll. For fans of horror fiction and cinema, it’s a perfect example of how less can be more in the genre. The sense of unease it creates, combined with its underlying commentary on societal fear and revenge, makes it essential viewing for anyone looking to explore the darker, quieter corners of 80s horror.


For any horror fan seeking a film that blends supernatural chills with deep thematic resonance, Dark Night of the Scarecrow is one to revisit—or discover for the first time.


Be sure to pre-order my terrifying new psychological thriller Newcomers now!


Also, for all of my works of horror and suspense fiction visit my Amazon store.

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