Manigances meurtrières

This story has some elements of suspense, is rather well-acted and also has the beautiful Jennifer O'Neill as a recent widow with two daughters. It is set in a small town in Northern California.

Bruce Boxleitner is "Allan" who along with his sister (well-portrayed by Joanna Cassidy) blow into town, apparently to escape something in their past. Maggie (O'Neill) is sympathetic and takes them in as boarders. She has a large house near the beach, and some of the settings are beautifully photographed.

Gradually Allen develops a close relationship with Maggie, and begins to ingratiate himself to her daughters, who also begin to trust him. Allen wants a new family, as his previous wife and children died in a tragic boating accident. Janice, his sister, threatens him with blackmail. She knows his secrets and will tell Maggie.

The plot thickens as Janice disappears. O'Neill begins to suspect Allen of foul play. When the jig is up Allen kidnaps her two daughters and brings them to a theater which Maggie owns, and is having a demolition crew gut the building. There is an interesting backdrop with the movie "A Place in the Sun" playing on the movie screen. Much suspense as Allen ties the older daughter up, threatens to throw Olivia (the youngest) off a balcony. O'Neill keeps her cool and tries to save her daughters. Recommend. 8/10.