“Seance on a Wet Afternoon” is a gripping psychological thriller written by Mark McShane. Published in 1961, the novel takes readers on a suspenseful journey into the mind of Myra Savage, a troubled medium who concocts a plan to gain fame and fortune.
With its intriguing plot and well-developed characters, “Seance on a Wet Afternoon” captivates readers from the very first page.
Book Summary and Plot Overview
Set in post-war London, the story revolves around Myra Savage, a middle-aged woman who believes she possesses psychic abilities.
Myra convinces her loving but weak-willed husband, Billy, to participate in a scheme that involves kidnapping a young girl and then using her supposed psychic powers to help the police locate the missing child. As the plan unfolds, Myra’s psychological state deteriorates, blurring the line between reality and illusion.
Throughout the novel, Mark McShane masterfully builds suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The psychological depth of the characters and the intricate plot twists make “Seance on a Wet Afternoon” a gripping read that explores the dark recesses of the human mind.
Movie Adaptation of “Seance on a Wet Afternoon”
In 1964, director Bryan Forbes adapted Mark McShane’s novel into a critically acclaimed film. The movie, also titled “Seance on a Wet Afternoon,” brilliantly translates the psychological tension of the book onto the screen.
Starring Kim Stanley and Richard Attenborough, the film captures the essence of the characters and the haunting atmosphere of the story.
Setting and Film Locations
The novel is set in the damp and gloomy streets of London, providing a fitting backdrop for the dark themes explored in the story. The film adaptation beautifully brings this setting to life, showcasing both the exterior shots of the city and the intimate interiors that reflect the characters’ psychological states.
The film primarily takes place in Myra and Billy Savage’s modest home, which becomes a sinister haven for their disturbing plan. Additionally, key scenes are set in the claustrophobic seance room, where Myra attempts to communicate with the spirit world. The combination of these locations creates an eerie atmosphere that adds to the overall tension of the film.
Character Analysis: Who’s Who in the Story
Mark McShane’s “Seance on a Wet Afternoon” features a cast of complex characters who play pivotal roles in the unfolding drama. Myra Savage, the protagonist, is a fascinating character study.
Her desperation for recognition and her descent into madness make her both sympathetic and unnerving. Billy Savage, Myra’s husband, is a passive and easily manipulated character, torn between his love for Myra and his moral compass.
Other notable characters include Detective Inspector Watts, who becomes entangled in Myra’s scheme, and the kidnapped girl, who serves as a catalyst for the story’s events. Each character brings a unique perspective to the narrative, adding depth and complexity to the overall plot.
Memorable Quotes from “Seance on a Wet Afternoon”
- “Sometimes, the only way to make people listen is to do something drastic.”
- “In the darkness, secrets are born and truths are buried.”
- “The line between a dream and a nightmare is thinner than we think.”
- “Desperation can drive even the sanest of minds to commit unspeakable acts.”
- “The true nature of a person is revealed when they are pushed to their limits.”
The Captivating Soundtrack by John Barry
John Barry, renowned for his work on numerous film scores, composed the haunting soundtrack for the film adaptation of “Seance on a Wet Afternoon.” The music perfectly captures the suspense and psychological intensity of the story.
Barry’s use of eerie melodies and atmospheric sounds immerses the audience in the unsettling world of the characters, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Curiosities and Interesting Facts about the Book and Movie
- Mark McShane based the character of Myra Savage on a real-life medium he encountered during his research for the novel.
- The film adaptation of “Seance on a Wet Afternoon” received several prestigious awards, including two BAFTA Awards and an Academy Award nomination for Kim Stanley’s performance.
- The novel and the film explore themes of obsession, manipulation, and the blurred boundaries between reality and illusion.
- The ending of both the book and the film leaves room for interpretation, allowing readers and viewers to draw their own conclusions.
Dressing like Myra Savage and Woman at the First Seance
The fashion in “Seance on a Wet Afternoon” reflects the characters’ personalities and the time period. Myra Savage’s wardrobe consists of modest, slightly outdated dresses that emphasize her middle-aged appearance. To dress like Myra, opt for knee-length, long-sleeved dresses in muted colors, paired with simple cardigans and low-heeled shoes.
For the Woman at the First Seance, choose a more glamorous approach. This character wears a stylish cocktail dress with a cinched waist and a full skirt. Accessorize with statement jewelry and a small clutch bag. Both looks capture the essence of the characters and add a touch of vintage elegance to your wardrobe.
Mark McShane: A Brief Biography and Top 5 Works
Mark McShane was a British author known for his psychological thrillers. Born in 1929, McShane began his writing career in the 1950s, exploring themes of obsession, crime, and the human psyche. His works gained critical acclaim for their intricate plots and well-drawn characters. Here are five of his best-known works:
- “Seance on a Wet Afternoon” (1961) – A gripping tale of a troubled medium’s descent into madness.
- “The Crushed Velvet Miasma” (1962) – A psychological thriller set against the backdrop of the art world.
- “The Man Who Walked Away” (1967) – A haunting story about a man’s escape from a mental institution.
- “The Ninth Directive” (1971) – A suspenseful novel centered around a mysterious assassination plot.
- “The Killing of Francie Lake” (1976) – A gripping crime novel that delves into the dark underbelly of a small town.
Bryan Forbes: Other Media Adaptations by the Director
Bryan Forbes, the director of the film adaptation of “Seance on a Wet Afternoon,” was known for his versatility and ability to adapt various genres. Apart from his work on this gripping psychological thriller, Forbes directed several other notable films, including:
- “The Stepford Wives” (1975) – A chilling science fiction thriller exploring the role of women in society.
- “King Rat” (1965) – A war drama based on James Clavell’s novel, set in a Japanese POW camp during World War II.
- “Whistle Down the Wind” (1961) – A heartwarming drama about a group of children who mistake an escaped convict for Jesus Christ.
- “The L-Shaped Room” (1962) – A critically acclaimed drama following the struggles of a pregnant, unmarried woman in London.
- “The Railway Children” (1970) – A beloved family film based on Edith Nesbit’s novel, centering around three siblings who befriend a kind-hearted stranger.
10 Similar Movies to “Seance on a Wet Afternoon”
If you enjoyed the gripping atmosphere and psychological depth of “Seance on a Wet Afternoon,” here are ten similar movies that will keep you on the edge of your seat:
- “Misery” (1990) – Directed by Rob Reiner, this adaptation of Stephen King’s novel explores the disturbing relationship between a writer and his obsessed fan.
- “Repulsion” (1965) – Directed by Roman Polanski, this psychological horror delves into the mind of a young woman who becomes increasingly unhinged.
- “The Others” (2001) – Directed by Alejandro Amenábar, this supernatural thriller follows a woman and her two children as they uncover dark secrets in their secluded mansion.
- “Black Swan” (2010) – Directed by Darren Aronofsky, this psychological drama focuses on a ballerina’s descent into madness as she prepares for a leading role.
- “Vertigo” (1958) – Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, this classic film noir explores themes of obsession, identity, and manipulation.
- “Gone Girl” (2014) – Directed by David Fincher, this gripping thriller based on Gillian Flynn’s novel follows a husband as he becomes the prime suspect in his wife’s disappearance.
- “Shutter Island” (2010) – Directed by Martin Scorsese, this atmospheric mystery centers around two U.S. Marshals investigating the disappearance of a patient from a mental institution.
- “The Sixth Sense” (1999) – Directed by M. Night Shyamalan, this supernatural thriller follows a child psychologist as he tries to help a young boy who claims to see dead people.
- “Nocturnal Animals” (2016) – Directed by Tom Ford, this visually stunning film weaves together a story within a story, blurring the lines between reality and fiction.
- “The Machinist” (2004) – Directed by Brad Anderson, this psychological thriller stars Christian Bale as an insomniac factory worker whose life takes a dark turn.
Other Notable Works by Mark McShane
In addition to his gripping psychological thrillers, Mark McShane wrote several other notable works that showcase his versatility as an author. Here are five books that highlight McShane’s diverse storytelling abilities:
- “The Night of the Ripper” (1972) – A historical novel that delves into the infamous Jack the Ripper murders.
- “The Sinful Ones” (1975) – A suspenseful thriller set in the world of organized crime.
- “Satan’s Children” (1976) – A chilling horror novel that explores the supernatural.
- “The Killing Bottle” (1978) – A crime novel centered around a detective’s search for a serial killer.
- “The Devil in Me” (1981) – A psychological drama about a man haunted by his past.
Book Club Questions for “Seance on a Wet Afternoon”
- How does the theme of obsession drive the actions of the characters in “Seance on a Wet Afternoon”?
- Discuss the blurred boundaries between reality and illusion in the novel. How does this enhance the overall reading experience?
- How does McShane create suspense and maintain a sense of tension throughout the book?
- Analyze the character of Myra Savage. Is she a sympathetic character, or do her actions make her irredeemable?
- Explore the ethical implications of Myra and Billy Savage’s plan. Can their actions be justified in any way?
10 Similar Novels with a Gripping Plot like “Seance on a Wet Afternoon”
If you’re looking for more gripping novels in the same vein as “Seance on a Wet Afternoon,” here are ten recommendations that will keep you hooked:
- “Before I Go to Sleep” by S.J. Watson
- “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins
- “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn
- “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
- “The Woman in the Window” by A.J. Finn
- “The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith
- “In the Woods” by Tana French
- “The Secret History” by Donna Tartt
- “The Kind Worth Killing” by Peter Swanson
- “Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier
Buying Guide and Gift Ideas for Fans of the Book or Movie
If you’re a fan of “Seance on a Wet Afternoon” or know someone who is, here are some gift ideas to enhance the reading or viewing experience:
- A special edition of the book with insightful annotations and behind-the-scenes information about the author and the movie adaptation.
- A DVD or Blu-ray copy of the film, complete with bonus features and interviews with the cast and crew.
- A framed movie poster or a print of the book cover to display as a piece of art.
- A psychic-themed board game or tarot cards to explore the mysticism present in the story.
- A subscription to a mystery or thriller book club that delivers gripping novels to your doorstep each month.
Conclusion
“Seance on a Wet Afternoon” by Mark McShane is a gripping tale that explores the depths of the human psyche. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and haunting atmosphere, the novel captivates readers from start to finish.
The film adaptation directed by Bryan Forbes successfully translates the suspense and psychological tension onto the screen, creating a memorable viewing experience.
Whether you’re a fan of the book, the movie, or both, “Seance on a Wet Afternoon” offers a thrilling journey into the dark recesses of the human mind. With its themes of obsession, manipulation, and blurred realities, this gripping tale will leave you questioning the boundaries of sanity and the lengths one can go to achieve their desires.
So, immerse yourself in the chilling world of “Seance on a Wet Afternoon” and prepare to be captivated by its gripping narrative.
