Has to be one of the most underrated of the many, many Frankenstein films that have been made over the years. I like it even better than the Curse of Frankenstein, and would put it in the same league as Universal's first two films. The 'Dr.' really emerges as the monster here, tying it to the book in way many films miss.
This is a film that clearly deserves much greater attention and recognition, and its release in a Hammer box set is cause for celebration. Could we hope to see a film today where the creatures are made so present via acting, staging, and atmosphere? There are some genuine chills to this one. And, not only does this subtle approach to 'monsters' succeed, but the philosophical point and message of the film is welcome but never obvious or preachy.' A buried treasure for sure.
With so many vampire flicks, I thought 'oh no' at first. But this is as original and powerful a vampire film as I have ever seen, a fantastic re-visioning of how to imagine a vampire. An absolute must, even if you might avoid the genre as a rule.
A darkly original film, in classic Hammer style. A MUST see. A grim and tragic beginning leads to tragedy begetting tragedy. Reminds me a bit of The Wicker Man in its creepy and unnerving feel and the way it plays upon our emotional weaknesses. Hammer's revival bring hope to the languishing horror genre.
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29 Oct 2012, 10:42pm
Has to be one of the most underrated of the many, many Frankenstein films that have been made over the years. I like it even better than the Curse of Frankenstein, and would put it in the same league as Universal's first two films. The 'Dr.' really emerges as the monster here, tying it to the book in way many films miss.
Related to: The Revenge Of Frankenstein (1958)
Malleus Maleficarum
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15 Jul 2011, 12:04am
This is a film that clearly deserves much greater attention and recognition, and its release in a Hammer box set is cause for celebration. Could we hope to see a film today where the creatures are made so present via acting, staging, and atmosphere? There are some genuine chills to this one. And, not only does this subtle approach to 'monsters' succeed, but the philosophical point and message of the film is welcome but never obvious or preachy.' A buried treasure for sure.
Related to: The Abominable Snowman (1957)
Malleus Maleficarum
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24 May 2011, 11:29pm
With so many vampire flicks, I thought 'oh no' at first. But this is as original and powerful a vampire film as I have ever seen, a fantastic re-visioning of how to imagine a vampire. An absolute must, even if you might avoid the genre as a rule.
Related to: Let Me In (2010)
Malleus Maleficarum
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24 May 2011, 11:24pm
A darkly original film, in classic Hammer style. A MUST see. A grim and tragic beginning leads to tragedy begetting tragedy. Reminds me a bit of The Wicker Man in its creepy and unnerving feel and the way it plays upon our emotional weaknesses. Hammer's revival bring hope to the languishing horror genre.
Related to: Wake Wood (2011)