Cheap The Curse of Frankenstein (DVD) (Terence Fisher) Price

Related Products

Customer Reviews of The Curse of Frankenstein

Hammer's Beginnings
The classic Hammer Studio's first major foray into the horror genre remains one of its best. Long unavailable, 'The Curse of Frankenstein' features two great performances from Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee. Cushing creates a sinister but understandable Doctor and Lee gives new dimension to (what had become) a tired role in the Universal canon. Lee today still has a tremendous mind and memory, and has been doing some of his best work (in the recent 'Lord of the Rings'). 'Curse' was followed soon after by 'Horror of Dracula' (now released simultaneously on DVD). For an introduction to Hammer's stylistics and genre makeover, you can't start much better than these two films. (Though do check out Anchor Bay's recent years' releases)

---

The Beginning of a Legacy
Aside from being the first film to team the legendary actors Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee...this is also the first in the long line of Hammer films aimed at revamping the classic horror genre. Filled with strong gothic horror overtones this film is a must see for those interested in the more mature aspects of terror cinema. Within this film you will not find quippy Freddie Kruger lines nor gratuitous out pouring of blood...though mayhem abounds in this 1957 classic. Peter Cushing's portrail of Dr. Frankenstein is chilling; bringing the detached and cold blooded ethics of the infamous scientist to new hiegths. While Christopher Lee, though without lines, manages to add a new sensitivity to the creature...setting his version of the monster apart from Karloff's brilliant portrayal in the 1931 Universal version. The script was written by Jimmy Sangster and directed by Terence Fisher. If this title interests you I advise a deeper exploration into the Hammer Films legacy: Horror of Dracula, The Mummy, Curse of the Werewolf...etc. The list goes on....

---

NOT THE BEST OF HAMMER.....
Although the production values set the standards for things to come as did the acting and literate script, this is not the best Frankenstein film. The problem for me is the "monster" played empathetically by Christopher Lee. The make-up is cheesy. It looks like lumpy oatmeal. He's on screen enough and Lee does well in the role but he doesn't look like an assembled creation. It's not what the monster should look like. The Gothic atmosphere is excellent but the delectable Hazel Court as Elizabeth is underused---she does well in horror roles but you wouldn't know it here. Peter Cushing is fine as always as are the rest of the cast but this isn't my pick for a choice Hammer film. But true blue Hammer fans probably aren't disappointed. I just wish they had created a better, more imaginative creature.