The Nightcomers / Michael Hastings

Recently orphaned, Flora and Miles are abandoned by their new guardian and entrusted to the care of the housekeeper Mrs Grose, the governess Miss Jessel and Peter Quint, the former valet and now gardener. With only these three adults for company, the children lead an isolated life on the sprawling country estate. The children are particularly fascinated by Peter Quint, as he has a wide range of knowledge, tells exciting stories and is willing to entertain them. To this captive audience, Quint proclaims his strange philosophies about love and death. The governess, Miss Jessel, also falls under Peter’s spell, and despite their dislike, the two engage in a sadomasochistic love affair. Flora and Miles are fascinated by this relationship and help Quint and Jessel escape the interference of the disapproving Mrs Grose.