Rating summary

Movie		3.0
Video		3.0
Audio		3.5
Extras		4.0
Overall		3.0

Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell Blu-ray Movie Review

Reviewed by Brian Orndorf August 29, 2020

Feeling the need to squeeze out one more horror adventure with Victor Frankenstein, Hammer Films offers “Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell” to the mid-1970s, with audiences largely interested in more demonic happenings at the local theater. A sequel to 1970’s “The Horror of Frankenstein,” “Monster from Hell” doesn’t stray far from the “Frankenstein” formula, once again putting Victor in contact with scientific evildoing, only here he’s joined by a fan and the monster is an ape-like creation who, true to the brand name, doesn’t take kindly to the pains of life.

“Monster from Hell” details the meeting of Victor (Peter Cushing) and devotee Simon (Shane Briant), with the pair locked in an asylum for different reasons, coming together to work on Victor’s latest puzzle of human body parts. Overseeing the production is director Terence Fisher, a longtime Hammer veteran, and little is asked of him here, with the story mostly contained to asylum rooms. True to studio interests, the picture is talkative, but there’s the central crisis with the Creature, who needs special work, opening Simon’s eyes to the true Victor and his destructive focus on achieving his scientific goals. Time with the Creature is compelling, even with crude special effects and makeup efforts, but such oddity gives the feature a boost when it needs it, as violence is limited to a few scenes, making “Monster from Hell” more about ethical debates and surgical procedure.

Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell Blu-ray Movie, Video Quality 

A fresh scan hasn't been acquired for the Blu-ray release of "Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell." The AVC encoded image (1.85:1 aspect ratio) presentation looks old, with some filtering and processed grain, and detail isn't where it should be. Extreme facial surfaces are adequate at best, but rich textures are lacking, also found on flatter costuming and set design. Colors are also missing snap, with basic hues supporting the period mood, including red blood and feminine outfits. Skintones are natural, and monster flesh retains its grayish appearance. Delineation has some issues with solidification. Source is in decent condition, with some speckling and mild scratches.

Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell Blu-ray Movie, Audio Quality 

The 2.0 DTS-HD MA sound mix delivers clear dialogue exchanges, securing dramatic intent with balance and emphasis, and more monstrous communication is comfortable. Scoring is supportive without overwhelming the performances, and orchestral instrumentation is decent. Atmospherics with asylum activity are adequate, and sound effects are basic. Mild hiss is present throughout the track, along with pops.

Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell Blu-ray Movie, Special Features and Extras 

• Commentary #1 features film historians Steve Haberman and Constantine Nasr.

• Commentary #2 features film historian Jonathan Sothcott and actors Madeline Smith and David Prowse.

• "The Men Who Made Hammer" (16:01, HD) is an appreciation piece from writer Richard Klemensen, who takes a look at the career of producer Roy Skeggs. A seasoned accountant, Skeggs was brought on to supervise 1964's "The Evil of Frankenstein" and never stopped, offering hands-on work with Hammer while others in the company backed away from hard labor. Riding the changing ways of Hammer Films, Skeggs emerged as a driving force to keep the company going, including the management of ten productions in 1971 alone. While not a creative man, Skeggs understood the value of a good team, supporting moviemakers and hand-holding a few troubled shoots, including "To the Devil a Daughter." As the company's finances dried up, Skeggs found other opportunities, including a move to television and merchandising. Klemensen closes with an overview of Skeggs's influence on Hammer, and shares tidbits from their personal communication.

• Radio Spots (1:28) include two commercials for "Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell."

• And a Theatrical Trailer (2:57, SD) is included.

Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell Blu-ray Movie, Overall Score and Recommendation 

"Monster from Hell" isn't exciting, but it's reliably acted by Cushing, who's wonderfully invested in the role, giving encroaching madness some commitment. Briant is a pleasant addition, along with Madeline Smith as a Victor's mute assistant. It's overall suspense that's missing, with this, the last of Hammer's "Frankenstein" endeavors, showing fatigue as it tries to get something going with predictable elements of fright and refined British delusion.