Meaning: This quote by Nigel Kneale reflects his dismissive attitude towards the film "The Haunting." Nigel Kneale was a renowned British screenwriter, best known for his work in the science fiction and horror genres. He is perhaps most famous for creating the character Professor Bernard Quatermass in the Quatermass series. Kneale's dismissive comment about "The Haunting" sheds light on his high standards and discerning taste when it comes to horror and supernatural storytelling.

Released in 1963, "The Haunting" is a psychological horror film directed by Robert Wise. It is based on the novel "The Haunting of Hill House" by Shirley Jackson. The story revolves around a small group of people who are invited to stay in a supposedly haunted house to investigate paranormal occurrences. As the supernatural events escalate, the characters are plagued by fear and uncertainty about the true nature of the house.

Kneale's comment suggests that he did not find "The Haunting" to be worthy of his attention or consideration. This sentiment may stem from his own standards of what constitutes effective horror storytelling, as well as his knowledge of the genre. Kneale's work often delved into themes of scientific inquiry and rational explanations for seemingly supernatural phenomena, and it is possible that he found "The Haunting" lacking in these aspects.

It is important to note that Kneale's dismissal of "The Haunting" should be viewed within the context of his own contributions to the genre. As a writer who had a significant impact on the development of science fiction and horror on screen, Kneale's opinion carries weight within the industry. His body of work includes influential television plays such as "The Quatermass Experiment" and "Quatermass II," which combined elements of science fiction and horror to explore societal fears and scientific ethics.

In the broader context of horror cinema, "The Haunting" is often regarded as a classic of the genre. It is praised for its atmospheric tension, psychological depth, and innovative use of sound and cinematography to create a sense of unease and dread. The film has been studied and analyzed by scholars and cinephiles for its contributions to the evolution of horror cinema, particularly in its exploration of psychological horror and the supernatural.

Kneale's dismissal of "The Haunting" serves as a reminder of the subjectivity of artistic judgment. Different individuals, even those with significant expertise in a particular field, will have varying opinions and preferences when it comes to evaluating creative works. Kneale's comment also highlights the importance of critical discourse in the arts, as it prompts discussions about the criteria by which we assess the quality and impact of cultural products.

In conclusion, Nigel Kneale's remark about "The Haunting" reflects his personal standards and tastes as a writer with a significant legacy in the science fiction and horror genres. While he may not have found the film worthy of his consideration, "The Haunting" continues to be celebrated for its contributions to horror cinema and its enduring impact on the genre. Kneale's comment serves as a reminder of the diversity of opinions within the realm of creative expression and the ongoing dialogue about the nature of effective storytelling in the realm of horror and the supernatural.