The Uninvited (B/W 1944) Ray Milland, Ruth Hussey, Cornelia Otis Skinner
A film classic. As ghost stories go, The Uninvited is by far one of the best.

A black and white classic, this mystery/paranormal movie has everything, mystery, a ghost, romance and beautiful music in the background. Ray Milland and Ruth Hussey star as brother and sister, Roderick and Pamela Fitzgerald.

When siblings buy a beautiful old house on the English coast (Windward House) overlooking the ocean, they have no idea what awaits them in their new home. However, their dog knows and he immediately runs away. After moving in, the new owners soon sense that they are not the only residents of Windward House. They awaken to the sound of sobbing, they smell the strong scent of mimosa and one room is so cold, they cannot use it. Curious to know the history of the house, they set out to get some answers from the previous owner Commander Beech (Donald Chrisp). When Rod questions the Commander, he realizes that his questions are no surprise to the Commander who believes that the house is indeed haunted and that he fears for his young granddaughter's safety.

While the Fitzgerald’s are visiting the Commander, the granddaughter, Stella Meredith (lovely Gail Russell) comes home. Stella is also curious about Winward House but her grandfather has been evasive in answering her questions and has forbidden her to enter or go near the place. Now, he wants her to stay away from the meddling Fitzgerald's as well. However, Stella’s curiosity has gotten the best of her and she disobeys her grandfather’s orders.

Neighbor Dr. Scott (Alan Napier) who has found the Fitzgerald's pet, befriends and joins them in their quest to find out the truth about Winward House. The search for information leads Rod and Pamela to a grim-faced Miss Holloway, portrayed by Cornelia Otis Skinner who is superb in this role. Holloway knows all of the answers and has held them for years; but shares them with no one, not even the Commander. She inadvertently destroys herself, as she tries vainly to keep a promise made to her good friend who died many years ago. Victor Young's haunting 'Stella By Starlight' threads through the movie as tension rises.

This is such a good ghost movie, it is the kind that makes you turn on the lights to get rid of shadowy corners. The Uninvited was nominated for an Oscar in the Best Cinematography, Black-and-White category.

The Uninvited is available in VHS format from Amazon.com through various dealers.