Three in the Attic Movie: When Swinging Goes South (and Upwards)
Have you seen a wild movie that challenges the norms of the 1970s? Buckle up for "Three in the Attic." This film brings chaos and humor. A campus Casanova thinks he can handle three girlfriends. Spoiler: he’s very wrong.
Plot Summary: A Comedy of Errors (and Exhaustion)
What’s "Three in the Attic" about? Picture a college campus in the late '60s or '70s. Dexter, a charming but clueless student, thinks he’s living a dream. He has three girlfriends: Tobey, Jan, and Elinor. Dexter thinks he can date all three without them knowing about each other. It’s a deception waiting to fail.
And fail it does. As the saying goes, what is hidden will come to light. Dexter's girlfriends discover his tiring scheme. Instead of fighting, they unite against him. Their plan? To teach him a lesson through confinement and psychological games.
Now, the "attic" part enters. The women lure Dexter to an attic, a hidden space away from prying eyes. It’s not romantic; it resembles a detention center. Their goal is not to harm him but to exhaust him. Imagine being trapped in an attic with three angry women, ready to mess with your head. It’s old-school psychological torture.
They try to push him to his breaking point. They want him to understand the importance of honesty and commitment. The movie explores relationships, deception, and how scorned women can take action.
Availability: Hunting Down "Three in the Attic"
Now that you know about this gem, you might want to see "Three in the Attic." You probably wonder where to watch it. Searching for older films today feels like digging through time. You’re likely asking, "Where can I find 'Three in the Attic'?"
Unfortunately, "Three in the Attic" isn’t easy to find on major streaming services like Netflix or Hulu. This film often requires more digging. Check services that focus on classic films. Look at platforms like Criterion Channel and niche streaming services for older movies. Sometimes it might be available for rent on Apple TV or Google Play Movies.
For those who love physical media, try finding "Three in the Attic" on DVD or Blu-ray through retailers specializing in vintage films. The hunt can be part of the enjoyment for a movie like this.
Filming Location: Campus Capers at UNC Chapel Hill
If you’ve watched a movie where you thought, "That looks familiar," you're not alone. Fans of Tar Heels or North Carolina's beauty might think so while watching "Three in the Attic." The film was shot at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
For those interested in locations, several iconic spots appear in this film. Polk Place, the central area of campus, shows bustling student life in the film. Kenan Dorm adds classic architecture to its setting. The South Building, the administrative heart, adds grandeur to campus scenes too. While watching Dexter’s love life unfold, you get a glimpse of UNC's beauty from its late 60s/early 70s glory.
Related Topics: Venturing Beyond the Attic
"Three in the Attic" scratches the surface of movies related to attics. Attics serve as more than just storage; they are rich with potential for suspense, horror, and dark humor. Let’s explore more cinematic treasures.
Other Movies About Attics: More Than Just Storage Space
If "Three in the Attic" caught your attention, there's a whole world of attic-themed cinema waiting. Do you prefer horror with your attic thrills? "Stay Out of the Attic" takes a darker path. Picture ex-cons as movers discovering a disturbing secret: a Nazi scientist’s experiments on children happening in an attic.
This film diverges from romantic entanglements into darker themes. On the other end of the spectrum is the famous "Flowers in the Attic" series, drawn from V.C. Andrews's novels. This series showcases family secrets within a creepy attic. It features hidden inheritances and forbidden love, packed with Gothic melodrama.
The Dollanganger saga covers four films exploring the twisted lives of children trapped in an attic prison. Experience secrets and questionable parenting within its ominous walls. If you enjoy family dramas with macabre twists, this saga is for you.
For a recent attic-themed thriller, consider "Crawlspace" (also called "The Attic" or "Hideaway"). This 2013 horror film presents modern fears of what lurks in attics. Across various titles, the premise involves unknown threats in the attic, turning safe homes into terrifying traps. For good scares, these films offer chills from comedic to horrifying.
Flowers in the Attic Series: A Saga of Secrets and Attics
Let’s dive into the "Flowers in the Attic" saga. This gothic horror and family drama has intrigued people for years. The Dollanganger series includes four movies adapted from V.C. Andrews's popular novels.
The films are: "Flowers in the Attic," "Petals on the Wind," "If There Be Thorns," and "Seeds of Yesterday." Together they explore the complex narrative of
The Dollanganger children face betrayal, confinement, and that infamous attic. For fans wanting to watch the "Dollanganger" series in order, there's an ideal sequence. Start with the novel "Garden of Shadows." It outlines the Foxworth family's backstory. Then watch "Flowers in the Attic," "Petals on the Wind," "If There Be Thorns," and "Seeds of Yesterday."
This series contains shocking twists. Chris and Cathy Dollanganger's story is central. Their ending is tragic. Without too many spoilers, their journey is complicated. They endure three years in the attic, experiencing manipulation and emotional turmoil. One of the children, Cory, dies tragically. The film raises eyebrows with a controversial scene involving Chris and Cathy. The attic is filled with darkness.
Cory's body adds an unsettling mystery. What did Corinne do with it? In "Petals on the Wind," hints suggest she hid it in the attic. In the earlier film, she claims to have buried him. The twists are unsettling. The "Flowers in the Attic" movies and books explore family secrets. Expect twisted dynamics and attic-induced angst. Read more about this madness at The Guardian. Their article dives into the appeal of "Flowers in the Attic."
The Room (2003): Not That "Room" (But Still Attically Adjacent)
Now, let's discuss another movie titled "Room," but it's a different one. The cult classic "The Room," directed by Tommy Wiseau, is not about attics. It has unique cinematic qualities and an unintentional comedic legacy. It's a film that became famous for being so bad it's good, gaining a dedicated following.
If you want to experience "The Room," you may wonder where to watch it. It’s rarely on mainstream streaming services like Netflix or Amazon Prime. Netflix has "Room," a different film with Brie Larson. Wiseau’s "The Room" might be on platforms specializing in independent films. Services like Hoopla sometimes offer it for free streaming. You can also rent it on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, or Fandango At Home. There are often screenings where audiences enjoy the film's absurdity together.
The cast of "The Room" is memorable. Wiseau plays Johnny, the film’s protagonist. His performance is something to see. Greg Sestero plays Mark, Johnny's friend. His memoir, "The Disaster Artist," tells a funny behind-the-scenes story about the film's making. Juliet Danielle plays Lisa, Johnny's fiancée, adding to the overall bewilderment.
Is "The Room" based on a true story? Not really. Wiseau has kept details about its origins vague. The film is mostly fiction but captures raw emotions and interpersonal drama. These dynamics feel relatable, though exaggerated. The production cost of $6 million raised eyebrows for many reasons. Wiseau claimed it was due to cast replacements, but it remains mysterious. "The Room" does not aim for realism but instead focuses on distorted human emotions presented humorously.
Quigley Down Under: Crazy Cora and Long Shots
Next up is "Quigley Down Under." This 1990 Western stars Tom Selleck as Matthew Quigley, an American sharpshooter who responds to a help-wanted ad in Australia. He gets caught up with a ruthless landowner. The film features vast landscapes and classic Western themes.
One memorable character is Crazy Cora, played by Laura San Giacomo. She gives a captivating performance as Cora, who mistakes Quigley for her husband, Roy. Her portrayal adds depth to the story. Tom Selleck embodies Matthew Quigley, exhibiting charm combined with intensity. Is Quigley based on a real person? No, he’s fictional. The film draws inspiration from real issues about the mistreatment of Aboriginal Australians.
The film includes impressive shooting scenes. One iconic moment shows Quigley hitting a bucket 800 yards away three times in a row from a standing position! This feat highlights his sharpshooting talents. "Quigley Down Under" features Aborigine actors Simon Westaway and David Gulpilil, who were nominated for awards for their roles.
Remember when Cora calls Quigley "Roy"? This adds mistaken identity and emotional complexity to her character. While some scenes depict violence towards animals, no animals were harmed during production. They used special effects to create this impression.
Did Tom Selleck actually ride the horse? Yes, he did. The horse, named Spike, was well-suited for that era. And what about shooting? Selleck trained extensively but never fired live ammunition on set. The rifles used are noteworthy for this film.
Shiloh Sharps Model 1874 single shot rifle, plus three custom rifles were made for the film. Is there a sequel to "Quigley Down Under"? Sadly, no. The film is a standalone. It has no prequels or sequels planned. "Quigley Down Under" combines Western action, history, and memorable characters, making it a great genre movie.
Annie (Movie): Attic Discoveries and Family Secrets
Now, from the Outback to an unsettling attic, let’s discuss "Annie." There are many movies titled "Annie." In some, particularly horror variants, attics are dark places. In one version, Annie finds a headless corpse of Ellen in the attic. Nearby, there are occult runes drawn in blood. Quite different from orphan Annie and Daddy Warbucks.
How does Annie get into this attic? In some stories, a cultist helps Annie gain access. This detail increases the creepy atmosphere. While Annie uncovers dark secrets, she often seeks her family history. Does she find her biological parents? Some versions state her parents were David and Margaret Bennett, but they have passed. It’s a bittersweet revelation—closure with loss.
Let’s shift to real-life "Annie" news. Actress Annie Murphy shared her pregnancy announcement in July 2024 and baby shower photos in October 2024 with her partner David. This happy story contrasts with the dark tales of horror film Annies. Depending on which "Annie" you choose, the attic can have terrifying secrets or be irrelevant altogether. Just prepare for the chance of headless corpses if you venture into certain "Annie" movies.
Bill Paxton: A Career Highlight Reel (and a Paxton Family Affair)
Let’s remember Bill Paxton. He was a beloved actor with memorable roles in "Aliens," "Titanic," and "Apollo 13." Beyond films, the Paxton family legacy matters too. Bill had a son. His son, James Paxton, followed him into acting. James and Bill's daughter Lydia continue the Paxton legacy in entertainment.
Bill Paxton passed away in February 2017 at 61. What caused his death? A stroke followed surgery for a heart valve and aorta damage. His loss was felt by the film community and fans. His career had many highlights. He gained fame as Chet in "Weird Science" (1985) and later as Private Hudson in "Aliens" (1986). His filmography shows vast talent across action, drama, sci-fi, and comedy.
Bill Paxton was also remembered as a good friend. Actress Helen Hunt talked about their great chemistry on-screen. Jennifer Aniston honored him as a cherished member of Hollywood during a tribute. His warmth impacted many. The surgery before his death was to repair a valve and correct an aortic aneurysm on February 14, 2017. About family trivia: Was Bill Paxton's son in "Twister"? James Paxton is an actor but not in "Twister." Perhaps you mean Bill Paxton, who starred in that movie? The Paxton family’s contributions to film are notable. Bill's legacy shines through his work and his children.
Other Attic-Related Themes: Beyond Movies
Attics are not just movie sets; they symbolize many concepts in stories and real life. Let’s dive into attic-related themes.
Why might someone sleep in an attic? There are both practical and symbolic reasons. In disasters, like floods, attics can become a refuge, a last resort for safety. For some, it's about survival, gaining higher ground to escape danger. An attic may also symbolize solitude and introspection. Many people find it a retreat away from life’s chaos.
Attics often feature hidden secrets and affairs. The trope of a "woman with a lover hidden in the attic" recurs in literature. Bertha Mason from "Jane Eyre" is one example—Rochester's first wife kept hidden in the attic, endangering his life. In films like "Lover in the Attic," we see women hiding lovers from society. In real life, Dolly Oesterreich hid Otto Sanhuber in her attic for years, mixing fiction with reality.
Secrets often come to light in attics. The "discovery of secrets in the attic" appears frequently in narratives. Characters find hidden rooms and forgotten artifacts, revealing family truths. The attic becomes a place for uncovering the past. Thematically, "the attic" highlights flaws and forgiveness potential. In stories like "The Attic" by Satyajit Ray, it explores human emotions and redemption possibilities. These stories often highlight empathy and understanding human imperfections.
Anne of Green Gables: Attic Rooms and Orphaned Beginnings
Let’s now focus on a more wholesome attic association: "Anne of Green Gables." It does not have horror elements or secretive plots. However, Anne's cherished room is a major part of the Green Gables farmhouse story. Yet Anne’s past holds tragedy. What happened to her parents? Walter and Bertha Shirley died from typhoid fever when Anne was three months old. She never knew them. This loss defined her orphaned upbringing.
The attic also features prominently in another "Anne" story: Anne Frank. How long did she live in the attic? Anne Frank and her family hid in the Secret Annex or attic for over two years during WWII, with the Van Pels family and Fritz Pfeffer. Here, the attic symbolizes confinement, fear, and resilience against hardship. From Green Gables' cozy attic to Anne Frank's cramped space, attics evoke many emotions—comfort versus fear.
General Horror Themes: Attics and Beyond
Finally, let’s explore general horror themes; attics and horror often unite like dust bunnies with cobwebs. What are some of the scariest movies? Studies consistently show films like "Sinister," "Host," "Skinamarink," "Insidious," "The Conjuring," "Hereditary," "Smile," and "The Exorcism of Emily Rose" as some of the most terrifying movies.
These films create fright. They use primal fears. They exploit psychological anxieties. Common tactics include jump scares and suspenseful atmospheres. Disturbing imagery adds to the terror.
Have you heard about "phrogging"? It is not cute. It describes someone living secretly in another’s space. Often, they hide in crawl spaces or attics. "I See You" on Netflix explores this creepy idea. Imagine finding someone in your house, unseen. It disrupts home security and personal space. Attics inspire unease. Horror cinema embraces this setting for scares. It shows more to these dusty places than what meets the eye.
For more on the film “Three in the Attic,” visit the Wikipedia page. To learn about "If There Be Thorns", check its Wikipedia page.
Responses (0 )