The Treasure of Abbot Thomas

The Treasure of Abbot Thomas (1974)

Runtime: 37 minutes

Directed by: Lawrence Gordon Clark

Starring: Paul Lavers, Michael Bryant, Sheila Dunn, Frank Mills, Virginia Balfour

From: BBC

It was time for a ghost story. Specifically, Shudder has recently added several episodes from A Ghost Story for Christmas, a series of short films broadcast on the BBC around this time of year during most of the 70’s as way back when, spooky stories were told as part of oral tradition. In the past I’ve reviewed plenty of Christmas movies/specials. Thus, only a few will be seen this December.

The Treasure of Abbot Thomas was (loosely, so I hear) based on a story from English author M.R. James. In this adaptation, the focus of this 19th century tale is on a Reverend Somerton, who serves as a mentor to a Peter, Lord Dattering. Aside from an early séance, the spooky elements are reserved for the final few minutes. I don’t use the phrase “slow burn” yet it is apt in this case; much of this picture is two colorful characters-of contrasting personalities-attempting to locate purported good buried by the titular Thomas in the 15th century.

Throughout this, the spooky vibes start building via the cinematography, the performances, the eerie music. It crescendos in events that question the rationality of the rational Somerton. For those that want a “ghost story” filled w/ jump scares or specters flying all over the place, this isn’t for you. However, those wanting a moody, patient tale where the payoff is worth the journey… at least it can be found on Shudder for those that use the platform.