Terror on the 40th Floor

Synopsis

In the gripping thriller Terror on the 40th Floor, directed by Richard E. Meyer and released in 1974, viewers are plunged into a world of suspense when a young woman becomes ensnared in a deadly game within a high-rise building. The film follows the story of a troubled office worker, portrayed by John Forsythe, who is determined to help her as an unknown threat looms over them from the 40th floor. As events unfold, the protagonist must confront her darkest fears while navigating a psychological labyrinth filled with unexpected twists and turns. With a tense atmosphere and a storyline that holds audiences on the edge of their seats, 'Terror on the 40th Floor' merges horror with psychological drama, capturing the claustrophobic tension of urban life. The film's depiction of a cat-and-mouse chase in an elevator network and the floors above amps up the tension, making it a must-watch for fans of classic thrillers.

Cast

• 

  John Forsythe

  Dan Overland

• 

  Joseph Campanella

  Howard Foster

• 

  Lynn Carlin

  Lee Parker

• 

  Anjanette Comer

  Darlene Foster

• Laurie Heineman

  Ginger Macklin

• 

  Don Meredith

  Kelly Freeman

Reviews

Terror on the 40th Floor holds a mixed critical reception, garnering a ratings score of 4.7/10 on IMDb. Critics noted the film's promising premise but often pointed to its execution as lacking depth. As noted by one critic from 'The New York Times', "The film struggles with pacing, and while its concept is intriguing, the execution falls flat at times, failing to maintain sustained tension." Viewers on Rotten Tomatoes seem to echo this sentiment, with user reviews reflecting a range of reactions; some praised the film's atmosphere while others criticized its slow build-up. Fans of the genre may find enjoyment in the nostalgic elements of the 70s thriller style. According to a Metacritic overview, the film received a score signaling generally unfavorable reviews, but some audiences appreciate it as a cult classic. The overall feeling is that while 'Terror on the 40th Floor' may not be a top-tier thriller, it still delivers moments of genuine suspense that cater to its niche audience, making it an interesting watch for those who enjoy vintage horror themes.