A recently widowed writer rents a haunted house in which to write his latest novel and is soon beset by the various ghosts in the house bent on claiming him as their next victim.

Six months ago, Marty Beck rented a haunted house to inspire the writing of his new horror novel and vanished. Now, parapsychologist Dr. Pollenfax and two of his students hope to unravel the mystery. Entering the house, they're greeted by the late Mr. Beck's spirit, who informs them that they're standing at the gateway to hell -- and that Pollenfax's visit is long overdue.