6.8 | / 10 |
Users | 3.5 | |
Reviewer | 3.0 | |
Overall | 3.0 |
Last of the Hammer Frankenstein films, this one deals with the Baron hiding out in an insane asylum, so that he may continue his experiments with reanimating the dead, along with inmate Dr. Helder, who has been institutionalized for conducting such experiments.
Starring: Peter Cushing, Shane Briant, David Prowse, Madeline Smith, John StrattonHorror | 100% |
Video codec: MPEG-4 AVC
Video resolution: 1080p
Aspect ratio: 1.85:1
Original aspect ratio: 1.85:1
English: DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0
English SDH
Blu-ray Disc
Single disc (1 BD)
Region A (C untested)
Movie | 3.0 | |
Video | 3.0 | |
Audio | 3.5 | |
Extras | 4.0 | |
Overall | 3.0 |
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.
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.
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.
"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.
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