Hammer Horror Selection (1971)
Five classic movies from the studio that dripped blood!
Starring: Christopher Lee, Ralph Bates, Kate O'Mara, Dennis Waterman, Valerie Leon, Andrew Keir, Jenny Hanley, Patrick Troughton, Charles Gray, Patrick Mower, Veronica Carlson, Barbara Jefford, Suzanna Leigh, Yutte Stensgaard, Nike Arrighi, Michael Johnson, James Villiers, David Prowse
Director: Terence Fisher / Jimmy Sangster / Roy Ward Baker / Seth Holt
Running Time: 459 minutes
US MPAA rating: N/AUK BBFC rating: 18
Horror
On DVD You'll be instantly impressed by the sumptuous presentation of this five-flick bonanza from those gore-tastic horror pushers Hammer Studios. The smooth, matt-effect box folds out to display its array of discs in their full shiny glory, whilst tucked into the inside cover you'll find a set of laminated postcards featuring the original theatrical artwork from each movie.
Whether you'll be quite as taken by the general standard of the actual films on offer is a little more open to question.
Spanning 1968-71, this somewhat inconsistent selection represents a period generally regarded as Hammer's slightly - erm - crappier days. While the acting is solid and the blood flows as freely as ever, these five films suffer from shoogly sets, unconvincing scripts and languid direction. The one exception is probably (oc)cult Satan-dodging caper
DVD Extras: Just one distinctly dated trailer per disc. It's a massive disappointment when you consider Anchor Bay released all of these movies on Special Edition DVD in the US, with each one featuring a heady range of commentaries, documentaries and interviews.
It's Got: Some great ideas for Halloween dress-up parties - I'm going to go as Patrick Mower this year.
It Needs: Peter Cushing - a Hammer collection without him just doesn't seem right.
Alternatives: Hammer Horror Originals (which was released at the same time and features 'The Curse of Frankenstein', 'The Mummy' and 'Dracula'?
Summary: Puppet bats, pointy teeth, creaking doors, dripping blood, heaving ladychests, David "Green Cross Code" Prowse - it's all here. Just make sure you're armed with a crucifix and some garlic. And maybe some popcorn.
Review by Gary Panton
Review Date: 28th October 2003
Image Gallery
There is one image available in our gallery. Click on the thumbnail picture for the full size image.
External Links
