Mild-mannered newspaperman Don Knotts (as Luther Heggs) is assigned to spend a night in his small Kansas town's "haunted house", on the 20-year anniversary of its ghastly murder/suicide. Mr. Knotts' experience results in a sensational story about the Simmons house, "ghost-written" by his adept rival, reporter Skip Homeier (as Ollie Weaver). Mr. Homeier is, also, Knotts' rival for the affections of busty brunette Joan Stanley (as Alma Parker).
Anyway, the "Rachel Courier Express" story leads to a libel suit against Knotts, from the Simmons (the homeowner's) relatives.
Knotts is nervously appealing; however, this characterization and film do not compare well with either "Barney Fife" or "Mr. Limpet". The "haunted house" evenings (?), set off with an obvious stunt double, are especially disappointing. However, musician Vic Mizzy, who composed "The Addams Family", is noticeably effective. And, the strong supporting cast is full of recognizable TV faces, including two who will join the regulars on "Bewitched". Not too funny, not too frightening; give it an "attaboy", for trying.
**** The Ghost and Mr. Chicken (1966) Alan Rafkin ~ Don Knotts, Joan Staley, Skip Homeier
Anyway, the "Rachel Courier Express" story leads to a libel suit against Knotts, from the Simmons (the homeowner's) relatives.
Knotts is nervously appealing; however, this characterization and film do not compare well with either "Barney Fife" or "Mr. Limpet". The "haunted house" evenings (?), set off with an obvious stunt double, are especially disappointing. However, musician Vic Mizzy, who composed "The Addams Family", is noticeably effective. And, the strong supporting cast is full of recognizable TV faces, including two who will join the regulars on "Bewitched". Not too funny, not too frightening; give it an "attaboy", for trying.
**** The Ghost and Mr. Chicken (1966) Alan Rafkin ~ Don Knotts, Joan Staley, Skip Homeier