Mr. Wrong (1985 film)

Mr. Wrong is a 1985 New Zealand horror film, directed by Gaylene Preston. The film was based on an Elizabeth Jane Howard short story. It was released in the US as Dark of the Night.

Synopsis
Meg buys a Jaguar car, unaware that the previous owner was murdered and the vehicle is haunted. She soon finds herself stalked by the killer.

Production
It was the first film made by Preston-Laing Productions (Gaylene Preston and Robin Laing).

Reception
The film received positive reviews from New Zealand critics, with The Press calling it "an assured, gripping thriller". Overseas reviews were more mixed; the New York Times described it as "a mild effort" that "isn't quite sure whether it wants to be a chiller or a comedy." The Los Angeles Times said the film "may be vulnerable to the charge of silliness from time to time, but it leaves us wanting to see Preston's next film."

Film historians have compared Mr. Wrong to Melanie Rodriga's Trial Run (1984), an earlier New Zealand thriller with feminist themes.

Awards
Best Female Performance in a Leading Role - Film: Heather Bolton
 * 1986 National Mutual GOFTA Awards (New Zealand)

Nominated for Best Film Score: Jonathan Crayford Most Popular Film.
 * 1986 Créteil International Women's Film Festival (France)