Review by Dethcharm

CURSE OF THE BLACK WIDOW opens with the violent death of a man by what appears to be a monster. It turns out that several such incidents have occurred recently.

Private investigator, Mark Higbie (Tony Franciosa) is drawn into the case while investigating the disappearance of a woman's (Donna Mills) husband. Her name is Leigh Lockwood, and her family might just have some connection to all of this.

Police officers Conti (Vic Morrow) and Ragsdale (Max "Wojo" Gail) are also on the bizarre case. It is discovered that in all of the deaths, the victims were totally drained of blood, and injected with some sort of venom. It seems that a mysterious woman named Valerie Stephen is somehow involved. Could the crazy theories and first-hand accounts that Higbie has been hearing, actually be true? What, if anything does this have to do with Leigh and her family?

COTBW is another of Director Dan Curtis' made-for-TV horror creations. Sporting an intriguing creature and an all-star cast, it's enjoyable, though formulaic, following a similar pattern as Curtis' THE NORLISS TAPES, THE NIGHT STALKER, etc.

Franciosa is quite believable in his role. Co-stars the inimitable Patty Duke as Laura Lockwood. June Lockhart makes a brief, though exciting cameo as Mrs. Lockwood. Also, watch for June Allyson in a tiny, but memorable role as Olga.

P.S.- The title beast doesn't look too bad at the end, as long as you don't look too close!

P.P.S.- It's interesting that the family members are listed as "Lockwood", but are called "Lockridge" in the movie...