Shirley Mitchell, an American actress born in the early 1930s, brings a distinctive presence to the screen in My Blood Runs Cold (1965). In this film, she plays a pivotal role that highlights her ability to navigate the complexities of psychological tension and obsession. With a background in radio and television, Mitchell's performance in this cult classic adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative, making it a noteworthy entry in the realm of exploitation cinema. Her work exemplifies the era's fascination with dark themes and character-driven stories.
My Blood Runs Cold
After a car accident, Julie meets a stranger who tells her he is in love with her. The young man, Ben Gunther, believes he and the young woman, Julie Merriday, are the reincarnations of lovers from an earlier time. Ben calls Julie 'Barbara' and gives her a gold locket with her picture in it. Ben takes her sailing and they swim to a cave where he tells her he found the locket. Aunt Sarah confirms Ben's stories that match the family history. Julie's controlling father and boyfriend distrust Ben. He convinces Julie of his beliefs and encourages her to run off with him to marry. Julie's need for independence leads her to say yes to Ben. On a stormy night the couple sail away to elope. The father calls the Sheriff who discovers Ben's real name is Arthur Maine, an escaped murderer from an insane asylum. The police search for the sailboat by helicopter. Julie finds a diary of Benjamin H. Gunther dated 1874 on the boat that exposes Ben's fraud. Julie is scared but he still professes his love. To escape the police, the couple land the boat but are seen running on a beach. There is an extended chase and boyfriend Harry tries to reason with 'Ben'. Julie escapes but the two men climb a high sand plant platform and in the struggle Ben falls to his death.
