Hammer Films

The Curse of Frankenstein

Cut by the BBFC for 1957 cinema release. These cuts persisted into home video until the 2012 restoration on Blu-ray

Summary Notes

Victor Frankenstein builds a creature and brings it to life. But his creature behaves not as he intended.

inherited cuts

best
available

• 2012 Lions Gate RB Blu-Ray/R2 DVD Combo at UK Amazon
• 2012 Lions Gate Online

See  article from  blog.hammerfilms.com : Restored

The restore film will include the eyeball scene --- restored from a reel of a print housed at the BFI then integrated into the main restoration, which was scanned from a Warner Bros I/P --- though not the head in acid bath scene, which despite our best efforts appears no longer to exist.

R Rated

• 2003 Warner R2 DVD

UK: Passed 15 without further BBFC cuts for:

• 1989 Warner VHS

• 1957 cinema release

US: The cut UK version is MPAA R Rated for:

• 2005 Warner [Curse of Frankenstein + Taste the Blood of Dracula] R1 DVD

From Hammer Films by Wayne Kinsey. The BBFC asked for the following cuts after an initial viewing (in black & white):

• Cuts to the scene where a man's head is severed by the Baron and dissolved in acid. The severing was reduced to a brief shot and no footage at all survives of the acid scene. Stills exist though.

From Hammer Films by Wayne Kinsey. At the formal submission in colour, further BBFC cuts were required to reduce the following scenes to the bare minimum:

• close up of two hands lying on a table
• close up of an eye observed through a magnifying glass. See  cut scene on  youtube.com
• shot of the monster's face with a blood smear across one cheek when he is standing facing the maid

The Revenge of Frankenstein

• I Frankenstein

See trailer from youtube.com

Uncut at:

Unrated

UK: Passed 12 uncut for:

• 2002 Columbia/TriStar R2 DVD at UK Amazon

UK: Passed 15 uncut with all previous BBFC cuts waived for:

• 1986 RCA/Columbia VHS

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• US VOD to buy [US only] at US Amazon
• 2002 Sony R1 DVD at US Amazon

The running time is short compared with the original cinema submission PAL equivalent of 89:50s. Maybe it has somehow been double speeded up on PAL/NTSC conversions.

Summary review: Very highly regarded

Baron Frankenstein escapes from the guillotine and goes to Germany. There, he names himself Dr. Stein and plans to restart his experiments by using parts of dead bodies.

Cushing's performance as the obsessed doctor is magnificent. Francis Matthews as his impressionable assistant, and Michael Gwynn as the monster are also good.  Terence Fisher shows why he's Hammer's finest director.

Hammer films have a great style that is very easily to like and it makes for fun viewing. The film is very highly regarded.

• 1958 cinema release

The BBFC cuts were:

• Reel 2. Removed shot of Frankenstein dropping Karl's brain from a pan into a jar of fluid

The BBFC noted the submitted running time as 95:35s = 89:50s

The Evil of Frankenstein

The BBFC cut the cinema release but waived the cuts for DVD. There also exists a cut US TV version.

Summary Review: A Monstrous Continuity Error

Penniless, Baron Frankenstein, accompanied by his eager assistant Hans, arrives at his family castle near the town of Karlstaad, vowing to continue his experiments in the creation of life. He requires the services of a mesmerist, Zoltan, to successfully animate his monster. The greedy and vengeful Zoltan secretly sends the monster into town to steal gold and punish the burgomaster and the chief of police, which acts lead to a violent confrontation between the baron and the townspeople.

The film's version of the Monster is noted for resembling Universal Pictures' famous Frankenstein series of the 1930s and 1940s, including the flat-headed look of Jack Pierce's monster make-up. Earlier Hammer Frankenstein movies had studiously avoided such similarities for copyright reasons but a new movie distribution deal with Universal helped provide some latitude.

While loved by some, others regard the film as a less-than-satisfactory entry in the horror studio's run of Frankenstein films. The Evil of Frankenstein is considered by most fans to be a one off from the series proper, rather than part of the actual continuity, partly because of its stylistic differences from the other films, and partly because Frankenstein's thawed out original monster and the circumstances of its creation bear no resemblance to the creature from The Curse of Frankenstein.

Unrated

• 2013 Final Cut (RB) Blu-ray/(R2) DVD Combo at UK Amazon
• 2007 Showbox/Slam Dunk R2 DVD at UK Amazon

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2014 Universal Hammer Horror Series R1 DVD at US Amazon
• 2005 Hammer Horror Series R2 DVD at US Amazon

• 1964 cinema release

BBFC cuts:

• The murder of the Burgo-master was toned down

Frankenstein Created Woman

• Frankenstein Made Woman

Uncut in the UK and US

Summary Review: Frankenstein

Frankenstein is re-animated by his colleague Dr. Hertz proving to him that the soul does not leave the body on the instant of death. His lab assistant, young Hans, is found guilty of murdering the local pub owner and Frankenstein acquires his body immediately after the execution. Hans' girlfriend commits suicide and is brought back to life by the good Doctor but with Hans' brain replacing her own.

Terence Fisher and Peter Cushing teamed up in a return to form for the series. Cushing is back at his best, portraying Frankenstein as a complex, cold-hearted, yet curiously sympathetic outcast.

Frankenstein Created Woman is now regarded as one of the best Hammer films.

Unrated

• 2007 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2004 Warner R2 DVD

UK: Passed 15 uncut for:

• 1999 Warner VHS
• 1995 Lumiere VHS
• 1991 Castle VHS

UK: Passed X (16) uncut for:

• 1967 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated:

• 2014 Milennium/Hammer Collector's Edition RA Blu-ray at US Amazon
• 2008 Anchor Bay R0 DVD at US Amazon

Frankenstein Must Be Destroyed

Cut by the BBFC for a 1969 X rated cinema release. Uncut and 18 rated on VHS and then 15 rated on DVD. Uncut and PG-13 rated in the US.

Summary Review: Hammer at its Best

Baron Frankenstein together with a young doctor, Karl and his fiancee Anna, kidnap the mentally sick Dr. Brandt, to perform the first ever brain transplant.

Hammer Films' 5th Frankenstein film is their best. Cushing brings a new pathos to the character of the Baron that is consistent with, and at the same time, different than his previous films.

Terence Fisher brings an unbelievable sense of style to this, his best film too.

• 2004 Warner R2 DVD at UK Amazon

• 1989 Warner VHS

US: Uncut and MPAA PG-13 rated for:

• 2015 Warner Brothers RA Blu-ray at US Amazon
• 2015 Warner Home Video [Horror Classics Vol 1] RA Blu-ray at US Amazon
• 2004 Warner R1 DVD at US Amazon

• 1969 cinema release

From IMDb. The BBFC cuts were:

• Cuts to remove the rape of Anna by the Baron
• Edit shots and sounds of sawing during the brain operation followed by the removal of the brain behind a screen.

The Horror of Frankenstein

Uncut at:

R rated

UK: Passed 12 uncut for moderate violence and horror for:

• 2006 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2002 Warner R2 DVD

• 1999 Warner VHS
• 1993 Lumiere VHS

• 1970 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA R rated for;

• US Starz/Anchor Bay R1 DVD via US Amazon

Summary Review: Cold Blooded

The brilliant but misunderstood scientist Frankenstein builds a man made up of a collection of spare body parts. The monster becomes alive but he has mental capabilities much below par. The monster is aggressive and wreaks havoc outside the laboratory.

Ralph Bates was cast as Victor Frankenstein, the role having, five times previously, been played by Peter Cushing. It seems that the producers were emphasising a younger Baron in the hope of targeting a younger audience

Bates' Frankenstein is a cold blooded, emotionless character, who uses Frankenstein as his personal executioner.

A fine flick with some exceptional acting to boot.

Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell

Cut by the BBFC for cinema release. Then further cut for a US R rating. All home video version were cut to some extent until 2014 when an uncut restored version was released

Summary Review: Monster from the Planet of the Apes

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.

Fisher's attention to atmosphere and Cushing's patented mad doctor lay down a solid foundation, but John Elder's stilted script, cheapo production values (nice miniatures!) and poor make-up FX (the monster looks like Big Foot mixed with Cornelius from PLANET OF THE APES) kill its serious intentions. However, there's enough going on here to merit at least one watch for horror fans.

• 2014 ICON Entertainment [Restored + R rated Versions] RB Blu-ray/R2 DVD Combo at UK Amazon

The uncut version was previously presented at special screenings with the following comments from a Hammer forum:

The teeth-clamping scene, the additional shot of bloody arm stumps, extra eye surgery, extra brain-sawing/surgery, extra organ-throwing and sliding about in blood plus the legendary missing extra frames of the glass-slashed throat! Plus extra frames of the dead Monster and an extra reaction shot of Sarah that is in the cut, but not the uncut version. Longest ever version!"

• De EMS R2 DVD via UK Amazon

The German DVD only suffers the cut close up to bloodied throat.

• 1996 Warner VHS
• 1972 cinema release

Hammer Films have enquired about the whereabouts of 2 missing scenes:

• An extended body falling into grave scene.
• An extended scene showing glass in the throat.

Perhaps a clue to the original cinema cuts.

pre-cut

• 1996 Warner VHS

pre-cut

• 2003 Leisurewear/DD Video R2 DVD

It seems that the intended version was the US R rated version with some cuts restored to operation scenes. The previously missing shot of Frankenstein tying up arteries with his teeth during an operation was included. However the DVD was first published as per the US R rated version which was later withdrawn and replaced with the intended version.

The cuts in the official version were:

• Missing shot of severed hands in coffin
• Missing shot of monster's eye being put in socket during an operation
• A deleted close-up of the bloodied throat of the murdered asylum director (John Stratton) after being glassed
• Cuts to some of the footage of the asylum maniacs ripping up the monster, b ut not as much as the R rated version.

See  pictorial cuts from  movie-censorship.com . The cuts were:

• Missing shot of severed hands in coffin
• Missing shot of Frankenstein tying up arteries with his teeth during an operation
• Missing shot of monster's eye being put in socket during an operation
• Missing shots of a skull being sawn and opened during an operation
• A deleted close-up of the bloodied throat of the murdered asylum director (John Stratton) after being glassed
• Cuts to some of the footage of the asylum maniacs ripping up the monster and eating parts of him.

The Quatermass Xperiment

• The Quatermass Experiment
• The Creeping Unknown

The film was uncut for an X rated 1955 cinema release. The BBFC downgraded the rating to PG for home video. Uncut in the US.

Summary Review: The Birth of Hammer Horror

Hammer's first significant experiment with horror came in the form of a 1955 adaptation of Nigel Kneale's BBC Television science fiction serial The Quatermass Experiment, which was directed by Val Guest. As a consequence of the contract with Robert Lippert, American actor Brian Donlevy was imported for the lead role, and the title was changed to The Quatermass Xperiment to cash in on the new X certificate for horror films. The film was an unexpectedly big hit.

A missile, launched by the team led by Prof. Quatermass, lands in the English countryside. Of the three members of the crew, two have mysteriously disappeared. The third one, barely alive, undergoes an horrible metamorphosis turning into a monstrous thing . Quatermass realizes that this is the way chosen by an alien form of life to invade the Earth.

IIt's a simple concept, but it's presented extremely well. The special effects are great for their day, especially the eerie scenes of the rocket poking up like a giant lawn dart from an English field. Very well acted film by most of the actors.

Unrated

• 2011 Icon Double Bill (with 15 rated Quatermass 2) R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2003 Leisureview R2 DVD

UK:  Passed X (16) uncut for:

• 1955 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2014 Kino Lorber RA Blu-ray via UK Amazon and at US Amazon
• 2011 MGM R1 DVD at US Amazon

X The Unknown

See trailer from youtube.com

Uncut at:

Unrated

UK: PG Uncut for:

• 2011 Icon R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2003 Leisureview R2 DVD

UK:  Passed X (16) uncut for:

• 1956 cinema release

See article from en.wikipedia.org . Regarding the script of X the Unknown, one BBFC reader/examiner (Audrey Field) commented:

Well, no one can say the customers won't have had their money's worth by now. In fact, someone will almost certainly have been sick. We must have a great deal more restraint, and much more done by onlookers' reactions instead of by shots of 'pulsating obscenity', hideous scars, hideous sightless faces, etc, etc. It is keeping on and on in the same vein that makes this script so outrageous. They must take it away and prune. Before they take it away, however, I think the President [of the BBFC] should read it. I have a stronger stomach than the average (for viewing purposes) and perhaps I ought to be reacting more strongly.

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2008 Anchor Bay R0 DVD at US Amazon

Summary Review: Quatermass 1A

The film was originally intended as a full part of the Quatermass series until Nigel Kneale denied Hammer the rights.

British Army radiation drills at a remote Scottish base attract a subterranean, radioactive entity of unknown nature that vanishes, leaving two severely radiation-burned soldiers... and a bottomless crack in the earth.

X the Unknown is an excellent sci fi movie from Hammer. The movie has a very creepy score and location photography, a lot of which was shot at night.

Quatermass 2

• Quatermass II: Enemy from Space
• Enemy from Space

See trailer from youtube.com

Uncut at:

Unrated

UK: PG Uncut for:

• 2011 Icon Double Bill (with 15 rated Quatermass 2) R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2003 Leisureview R2 DVD

UK:  Passed X (16) uncut for:

• 1957 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2008 Anchor Bay R0 DVD at US Amazon

Summary Review: Popular Sequel

Almost as popular as the original, the film is again adapted from one of Kneale's television scripts, this time by Kneale himself and with a budget double that of the original.

Professor Quatermass, trying to gather support for Moon colonisation his project to colonize the Moon, is intrigued by the mysterious traces that have been showing up.

The movie makes good use of locations and the alien plant is an old utilities generation plant that looks chilling and strangely futuristic.Donleavy is too much on one note as,but Sid James is effective in a rare straight role as a hard drinking journalist and the rest of the cast are adequate

Special effects are antiquated.What still works are its atmosphere and sense of paranoia regarding our political lords and masters.

Quatermass and the Pit

• Five Million years to Earth

See trailer from youtube.com

Uncut at:

Unrated

UK: Passed 12 uncut for moderate horror for:

• 2011 Studiocanal R2 DVD/RB Blu-ray at UK Amazon
• 2006 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2003 Warner R2 DVD

UK: Passed 15 uncut for:

• 1994 Lumiere VHS
• 1992 Warner VHS

UK: Passed X (16) uncut for:

• 1967 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• US 1998 Starz/Anchor Bar R1 DVD via US Amazon

Summary review: Well Regarded

The film opened to favourable reviews and remains generally well regarded.

An ancient Martian spaceship is unearthed in London, and proves to have powerful psychic effects on the people around.

A great example of its genre, and still superb today. The scientists are scientific, the army officer annoying, the plot marvellously constructed, and the effects a strange combination of the superb and the slightly ropey, exactly what you want from a classic sci-fi/Hammer adventure of the sixties. Well worth watching.

Follow up: The Quatermass Conclusion:

Hammer announced they would make a fourth Quatermass film but nothing ultimately came of this. A new serial adventure, titled Quatermass, was eventually made in 1979 by ITV television in 1979 and (in re-edited form) received a limited cinema release under the title The Quatermass Conclusion.

The Mummy

No BBFC cuts for cinema release (after script approval that is).  For some reason the US Version is a couple of minutes longer and has been used for home video releases.

Summary Review: Brought  to life by Hammer

Hammer's executives had their pick of Universal International's horror icons and chose to remake The Mummy's Hand with the same team responsible for Dracula, Curse of Frankenstein and Revenge of Frankenstein. The Mummy also incorporates significant story elements from that film's sequel, The Mummy's Tomb. The film broke the box-office records set by Dracula the previous year, both in the UK and the U.S.

In the 1890s a team of British archaeologists discover the untouched tomb of Princess Ananka but accidentally bring the mummified body of her High Priest back to life.

Cushing it at the top of his form, and Lee makes the most of his limited opportunities to generate sympathy for the monster. The Mummy is one of the better looking Hammer films, thanks to Bernard Robinson's production designs and Jack Asher's cinematography. All round a very successful film but not for it's gore or horror, the film is very much family fayre.

Unrated

• 2013 Lionsgate RB Blu-ray/R2 DVD Combo at UK Amazon
• 2003 Warner R2 DVD  via UK Amazon
• 1997 Warner VHS

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2015 Warner Home Video RA Blu-ray at US Amazon
• 2015 Warner Home Video [Horror Classics Vol 1] RA Blu-ray at US Amazon
• 2001 Warner DVD via UK Amazon and at US Amazon
• VOD to rent/buy [US only] at US Amazon

The US Version and all video versions run a couple of minutes longer than original UK cinema version.

• 1959 cinema release

See  article from  bbfc.co.uk . The film may have been passed uncut but the BBFC got a bit heavy whilst approving the script.

There has never been any talk of censor cuts but Hammer Films have enquired about the whereabouts of the following missing footage. The first scene in the list was available as an option to distributors (which nobody opted for) so it is not clear whether these scenes were cut out of preference or else out fear of the BBFC:

• The under-dressed maidens in the flashback procession.
• High Priest Kharis' tongue-cutting and/or the tongue wriggling (these are thought to exist, but no known evidence).
• There are also reports of missing shots to the mummy's head

The Curse of the Mummy's Tomb

Uncut in the UK and US.

Summary Review

When European Egyptologists Dubois, Giles and Bray discover the tomb of the Egyptian prince Ra, American entrepreneur and investor Alexander King insists on shipping the treasures and sarcophagus back to England for tour and display. Once there, someone with murderous intent has discovered the means of waking the centuries dead prince...

Fred Clark is great as the Barnum-type promoter. If you love Hammer films or 1960s British horror movies in general then The Curse Of The Mummy's Tomb is certainly worth a look.

Unrated

• 2006 Sony R2 DVD via UK Amazon

UK: Passed 15 uncut for:

• 1986 RCA/Colombia VHS

UK: Passed X (16) uncut for:

• 1964 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2008 Sony Icons of Horror Collection R1 DVD at US Amazon

The Mummy's Shroud

Cut by the BBFC for 1967 X rated cinema release. PG uncut on DVD since 2003

Summary Review: Traditional mummy movie

In 1920 an archaeological expedition discovers the tomb of an ancient Egyptian child prince. Returning home with their discovery, the expedition members soon find themselves being killed off by a mummy, which can be revived by reading the words off the prince's burial shroud.

A traditional mummy movie with an interesting story and well developed characters. If you are a fan of classic horror from the 50s and 60s this you will definitely enjoy.

• 2012 Studio Canal RB Blu-ray/R2 DVD Combo at UK Amazon
• 2003 Momentum R2 DVD via UK Amazon

US: MPAA Unrated for:

• 2008 Anchor Bay R0 DVD at US Amazon

Hammer have said that there is no missing material for the 2012 restoration. So previous releases are probably uncut too.

• 1967 cinema release

Blood from the Mummy's Tomb

Uncut at:

best
available

PG

UK: the cut cinema version was passed 15 for moderate violence and horror without further BBFC cuts for:

• 2007 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2004 Warner R2 DVD
• 1999 Warner VHS
• 1993 Lumiere VHS

UK: Passed X (18) after BBFC cuts for:

• 1971 cinema release

US: The cut UK version is MPAA PG rated for:

• 2012 Lionsgate R1 DVD at US Amazon

The 1971 cinema version was cut and this seems to have become the definitive version for all videos/DVDs since (including Region 1 releases). The cuts were:

• A shot of a hospital orderly striking an inmate was removed

Summary Review: Tragedy and Rebirth

The shooting of the film was beset by tragedy. Original star Peter Cushing had to leave the production after just one day when his wife fell ill and subsequently died. Five weeks into shooting director Seth Holt suffered a heart attack and died, leaving Hammer's managing director Michael Carreras to complete the remaining sequences.

The film was adapted from Bram Stoker's novel The Jewel of Seven Stars. It was released as the support feature to Dr. Jekyll and Sister Hyde

An archaeological expedition brings back to London the coffin of an Egyptian queen known for her magic powers. Her spirit returns in the form of a young girl.

The film has had a mixed reception from reviewers. It is occasionally rather slow moving and maybe a little too carelessly scripted, but it looks fantastic with great sets and props.

The Two Faces of Dr Jekyll

• The Two Faces of Dr. Jekyll
• House of Fright
• Jekyll's Inferno
• Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Cut by the BBFC for an X rated 1960 cinema release. Also cut for the original theatrical release. Uncut on home video in both the US and UK.

Summary Review: A Suave Hyde

Dr. Henry Jekyll experiments with scientific means of revealing the hidden, dark side of man and releases a murderer from within himself.

Terence Fisher's film The Two Faces of Dr. Jekyll is one of the most original and underrated adaptations of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde . Unlike in the three previous movies where Jekyll was presented as a young handsome and likable man and Hyde as evil looking ugly monster, here Jekyll is middle-aged bearded and very cold and harsh towards others. Hyde on the other hand is smooth, handsome player who gets everyone to like him like that. However, he is no less evil then other versions of Hyde.

A dam good story with wit and cautionary observations of the human condition, this isn't one for the blood and gore brigade.

Unrated

• 2010 Sony R2 DVD at UK Amazon

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2015 Mill Creek Entertainment [Hammer Film Collection Vol 1] R1 DVD at US Amazon
• 2008 Sony Icons of Horror Collection R1 DVD at US Amazon

• 1960 cinema release.

From cuts details on IMDb :

• Dialogue cuts
• Cut to shorten the scene where the woman dances with a snake
• Cut to shots of brief nudity during Hyde's bedroom scene with Marla
• A reduction in Hyde's strangulation of Marla.

Dr Jekyll & Sister Hyde

Cut by the BBFC for cinema release. The cuts have persisted ever since

Summary Review: Hormone Problem

Dr. Henry Jekyll, in attempting to find a toxin that will wipe out all common diseases, accidentally stumbles upon a formula that transforms him into a gorgeous but evil woman. He needs female hormones for his experiments, so a number of London women meet bloody deaths.

This is one of few interesting horror films from Hammer at 70's. Director Roy Ward Baker has made a film that really takes you to the late of 19's century. Ralph Bates is good as the Ripper Jekyll.

PG

X rated

submitted
96:08s =92:17s
 

• 2009 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon

UK: Passed X/18 after BBFC cuts for:

• 2004 Cinema Club R2 DVD
• 1990 Warner VHS
• 1971 cinema release

US: The US release features this same cut version. Originally X rated but later PG rated for home video:

• 2001 Starz/Anchor Bay R1 DVD via US Amazon

No sign of any more complete version so this seems to be the best available

Cu details from the Anchor Bay Forum:

• Reduction in rabbit gutting inter-cut with opening murder
• Killing of prostitute in bedroom toned down with alternate shots
• Killing of the doctor re-edited

The Witches

• The Devil's Own

Always uncut in the UK and US.

Summary Review: Seriously Fun

In a magazine interview, writer Nigel Kneale said he was dissatisfied with the way the film had turned out. Personally he found modern black magic practitioners to be fairly risible and he had intended to poke fun at the idea of an English coven. However his blackly comic touches were smoothed out by the production team, who wanted the film to be entirely serious

Joan Fontaine plays a woman traumatized in Africa that eventually takes a teaching job in the English countryside.

This is your typical Hammer fare with a pretty good story of re-provoking the trauma within Ms. Fontaine as she discovers that a coven of witches resides in her new home town. A fun film to watch but the end is a bit hokey.

text

• 2013 Studiocanal RB Blu-ray/R2 DVD Combo at UK Amazon
• 2007 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon

UK: Passed X (16) uncut for:

• 1966 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2000 Starz/Anchor Bay R0 DVD at US Amazon

The Devil Rides Out

• The Devil's Bride

Uncut in the US and UK. The special effects were upgraded for 2012 DVD.

Summary Review: Highly Entertaining

In the countryside of England, the Duc de Richleau, who is proficient in black magic, learns that guests of a friend are members of a satanic cult. A young man Simon and his friend Tanith Carlisle will be baptized by the powerful leader Mocata to serve the devil. The two friends abduct Simon and Tanith expecting to save their souls but Mocata summons the Angel of Death and the Goat of Mendes to help him in a battle between the good and the forces of evil.

The Devil Rides Out is a flawed but highly entertaining production by Hammer directed by Terence Fisher, one of the best British directors of horror genre, with a good story of satanic cult. Christopher Lee this time is the good guy , fighting to save his protegee from the powerful forces of the darkness.

G Rated

• 2012 Studio Canal RB Blu-ray/R2 DVD Combo at UK Amazon
• 2002 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2002 Warner R2 DVD
• 1999 Warner VHS
• 1993 Lumiere VHS

Note that the special effects have been 'upgraded' for the 2012 Studio Canal restoration. See  article from  movie-censorship.com

UK: Passed X (16) uncut for:

• 1968 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA G Rated for:

• 2004 Starz/Anchor Bay [Devil Rides Out + Rasputin: the Mad Monk] R1 DVD via US Amazon

To the Devil a Daughter

Never cut

Summary Review: Swan Song

An excommunicated priest sets up a satanic cult that only looks Catholic on the outside. He convinces a man to sign over his daughter's soul so that she will become the devil's representative on earth on her eighteenth birthday, but as that day nears, the man seeks the help of an American occult novelist to save his daughter, both physically and spiritually.

The completed film bore little resemblance to Wheatley's original story, and so unhappy was Wheatley with the final result that he refused to allow Hammer to film any more of his books.

An enjoyable film which was a fine swan song for Hammer

• 2007 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2003 Warner R1 DVD
• 1987 Warner VHS
• 1976 cinema release

• 2002 Starz / Anchor Bay R1 DVD at US Amazon

The Abominable Snowman

• The Abominable Snowman of the Himalayas

Never cut in the US or UK

Summary Review: Low key High Altitude

A kindly English botanist and a gruff American scientist lead an expedition to the Himalayas in search of the legendary Yeti.

Nicely crafted little early Hammer film from the late fifties, surprisingly low-key for this studio, not to mention thoughtful. Directed by Val Guest and written by Nigel Kneale, it is the tale of two men, one good, an Englishman, (naturally) and one bad, an American, and their quest for the Yeti, popularly known as the abominable snowman in the high Himalayas.

Filmed on a tight budget, the picture is well-written, deliberately paced, and has relatively little action.

Unrated

• 2011 Icon Double Bill R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2003 Leisureview R2 DVD
• 1957 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2008 Anchor Bay R0 DVD-R at US Amazon

The Hound of the Baskervilles

Cut by the BBFC for 1959 cinema release. It seems likely that it was this cut cinema version that has been released ever since.

Summary Review

Returning to his family's manor house on the lonely moors after his father dies under mysterious circumstances, Sir Henry Baskerville is confronted with the mystery of the supernatural hound that supposedly takes revenge upon the Baskerville family. The famous detective Sherlock Holmes and his assistant Dr. Watson are brought in to investigate.

Adapted from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's most famous Sherlock Holmes story, Terence Fisher's film of The Hound of the Baskervilles is probably the best attempt to immortalise the Great Detective on film. The movie has several things in its favour, notably a director at the top of his game and Jack Asher's cinematography. The cast, too, is almost flawless.

best
available

Unrated

cinema
submitted
87:13s =83:44s

• 2015 Arrow Video RB Blu-ray at UK Amazon
• 2003 MGM R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 1988 Warner VHS

A best guess based on a short running time is that this is the cinema version as cut in 1959

• 1959 cinema release

US: The same version as the UK release is MPAA Unrated for:

• 2003 MGM R1 DVD at US Amazon

The Man Who Could Cheat Death

Cut by the BBFC for its original cinema release and the cuts have persisted into all subsequent releases.

Summary review: Melodrama

A remake of The Man in Half Moon Street.

A mad doctor plans to live forever through periodic gland transplants from younger, healthier human victims.

Jimmy Sangster's screenplay based on the Barre Lyndon play tends to be heavy on the melodrama and short on the thrills.

Some stylish direction from Fisher and Christopher Lee in a supporting role and good acting on hand from Hazel Court and others.

best
available

Unrated

submitted
82:59s

• 2015 Eureka Entertainment Ltd (RB) Blu-ray/R2 DVD Combo at UK Amazon

UK: Passed X (16) after BBFC cuts for:

• 1959 cinema release

Italy: The cut UK cinema version was released for:

• It cecchi gori R2 DVD at UK Amazon

US: The cut UK cinema version was MPAA Unrated for:

• 2011 Legend Double Bill (+The Skull) R0 Blu-ray via UK Amazon and at US Amazon
• 2008 Legend R1 DVD via UK Amazon and at US Amazon

The cuts were:

• a famous shot of Hazel Court's breast as she briefly unfurls a wrap during a modelling session. Apparently shot for a continental version which may have been located in France but it hasn't made it to any DVD releases yet. It is also reported that Hammer Films retains a copy with the nude scene.
• cuts to the climatic disintegration of Anton Diffring

Curse of the Werewolf

• The Curse of Siniestro
• The Wolfman

Heavily cut by the BBFC for 1961 cinema release. A less cut BBC version turned up in 1995. Cuts waived for DVD

Summary Review: A fine job

In Spain, Leon is born on Christmas day to a mute servant girl who was raped by a beggar. His mother dies giving birth and he is looked after by Don Alfredo. As a child Leon becomes a werewolf after getting a taste for blood on a hunting trip

Oliver Reeds portrayal of Leon Corledo is magnificent. He has a great presence and a roughness to him that is perfect for playing a man cursed with lycanthropy.

The movie is heavy on atmosphere and creepy visuals. Terence Fisher, one of Hammers prime directors did a fine Job in bringing to life the tale of the werewolf. This is another jewel in his crown of great horror films.

Unrated

• 2015 Media Sales/Final Cut RB Blu-ray at UK Amazon
• 2010 Media Sales/Final Cut R2 DVD at UK Amazon

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2014 Universal Hammer Horror Series R1 DVD at US Amazon
• 2005 Universal Hammer Horror Series R1 DVD at US Amazon

The film has been completely restored with all the missing footage intact.

pre-cut

• 1995 Warner VHS

From IMDb:

The 1995 Warner VHS featured a print often shown by BBC which featured different cuts. Much of the material cut for the 1961 release is intact except for a reduced stabbing. However additional shots were missing including scenes showing dead bodies, shots of dead goats, and much of the climactic killing of the werewolf, including his deafening by the bells, the bloody gunshot wound, and some shots of his dead face over the closing credits.

• 1961 cinema release

From IMDb:

The film had considerable problems with the BBFC on its initial cinema release and was subsequently cut by around 5 minutes. Among the scenes edited:

• heavy cuts to the repeated stabbing of the Marquis (reduced to 1 stab)
• the murder of the prostitute where scenes of biting and a shot of her dead body were completely removed
• the killing of the werewolf in the bell tower which saw shots of his screaming when the bells ring, a blood spurt from a gunshot, and a closeup of his blood-dripping face also removed.
• In addition the film was also cut to edit scenes of the servant girl waking in the dungeon
• a shot of the Marquis picking a scab from his face
• images of dead lambs.

The Phantom of the Opera

Cut for an A rating on cinema release but uncut for home video

Summary Notes

The corrupt Lord Ambrose D'Arcy (Michael Gough) steals the life's work of the poor composer Professor L. Petrie. (Herbert Lom). In an attempt to stop the printing of music with D'Arcy's name on it, Petrie breaks into the printing office and accidentally starts a fire, leaving him severely disfigured. Years later, Petrie returns to terrorize a London opera house that is about to perform one of his stolen operas.

Unrated

• 2014 Media Sales/Final Cut (RB) Blu-ray at UK Amazon
• 2014 Media Sales/Final Cut R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2005 Universal DVD [which was never released]

The US Universal DVD of 2005 is uncut. It seems likely that this was the same version submitted to the BBFC in 2005. As it was not actually released, this is unconfirmed.

Netherlands: Uncut for:

• NL Universal R2 DVD via UK Amazon

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2014 Universal Hammer Horror Series R1 DVD at US Amazon
• 2008 Sony Icons of Horror Collection R1 DVD via UK Amazon and at US Amazon

• 1987 CIC VHS
• 1962 cinema release

From IMDb:

• edited out the eye-stabbing of the rat-catcher
• edited out shots of a hanging body
• extensive edits to scenes showing the creation and final unmasking of the Phantom.

From UK Amazon :

When released in 1962 Hammers version of this famous tale was intended to be an X Certificate, so they were horrified when informed that it was to be part of a double-feature with the A Rated Captain Clegg (aka Night Creatures) for its British theatrical release. Two scenes were lost to British audiences-- the dispatching of Patrick Troughton's rat-catcher by The Dwarf (quick but very nasty) and the Phantom tearing off his mask to the stunned audience. Both these scenes are on this DVD version and add some much-needed grislyness to the film.

The Gorgon

Cut by the BBFC for an X rated 1964 cinema release. It is not clear if these cuts persisted onto home video which was 15 rated for 1986 VHS and then 12 rated for 2010 DVD.

Summary Review: A Fine Hammer Horror

In the early 20th century, a Gorgon takes human form and terrorizes a small European village by turning its citizens to stone.

This is a fine Hammer film, not overly scary, but incredibly atmospheric with its swirling mists, huge cavernous palatial sets, and wonderful direction and casting. Terence Fisher does a first-rate job showing us the conspiracy going on in this village. The film belongs to Christopher Lee, who play an eccentric, gruff scholar helping the other son of the newly killed father.

best
available

Unrated

• 2010 Sony R2 DVD at UK Amazon

• 1986 RCA/Columbia VHS

It is not clear whether the video submissions included the BBFC cinema cuts or not.

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2015 Mill Creek Entertainment [Hammer Film Collection Vol 1] R1 DVD at US Amazon
• 2008 Sony Icons of Horror Collection R1 DVD at US Amazon

• 1964 cinema release

From IMDb:

• The BBFC darkened shots of the Gorgon's decapitated head

Captain Clegg

• Night Creatures

Uncut in the UK and US. Home videos are noted as running around 80m but the BBFC noted an unlikely running time of 105 minutes for 1962 cinema release

Promotional Material

Captain Collier (Patrick Allen) and his band of sailors show up to an English coastal town to investigate reports of Marsh Phantoms who ride by night spreading terror to the town. The Captain suspects that the local reverend (Peter Cushing) might be hiding something. Are the phantoms genuine or a cover for illegal smuggling activities?

Unrated

• 2014 Media sales/Final Cut Entertainment (RB) Blu-ray at UK Amazon
• 2014 Media sales/Final Cut Entertainment R2 DVD at UK Amazon

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2014 Universal Hammer Horror Series R1 DVD at US Amazon

• 1962 cinema release

The Plague of the Zombies

• The Zombies

Always uncut in the UK and US.

Summary Review: A decent offering

Young workers are dying because of a mysterious epidemic in a little village in Cornwall. Doctor Thompson is helpless and asks professor James Forbes for help.

This film is fine and has a strong and commanding lead role by Andre Morell. It's a good story, is well put together, and interestingly is set in 1860 in darkest Cornwall

Overall this is a decent offering from the Hammer team.

Unrated

• 2012 Studiocanal RB Blu-ray/R2 DVD Combo at UK Amazon
• 2006 Optimum R2 DVD
• 2003 Warner R2 DVD

UK: Passed 15 uncut for:

• 1989 Warner VHS

UK: Passed X (16) uncut for:

• 1966 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2008 Anchor Bay R0 DVD at US Amazon

Rasputin: The Mad Monk

Cut by the BBFC for 1966 cinema release. the cuts persisted to VHS. Uncut for DVD. Uncut in the US

Summary Review: Pretty Good

The movie chronicles the events of history's man of mystery, Rasputin. Although not quite historically accurate and little emphasis is put on the politics of the day, Rasputin's rise to power and eventual assassination are depicted in an attempt to explain his extraordinary power and influence.

Noted for stunning visuals on a small budget and a good score but otherwise an average Hammer horror. Entertaining enough but won't stand up to repeated viewing.

• UK 2012 Studio Canal RB Blu-ray/R2 DVD Combo at UK Amazon

UK: Passed 15 uncut for:

• UK 2006 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• UK 2003 Warner R2 DVD

US:  Uncut for:

• US 2004 Starz/Anchor Bay Double Bill R1 DVD at US Amazon

submitted
90:00s =86:24s

• UK 1999 15 rated Warner VHS
• UK 1995 15 rated Lumiere VHS
• UK 1991 15 rated Castle VHS

• UK 1966 X rated cinema release

From IMDB. The BBFC cuts were:

• the Rasputin/Sonia love scene was shortened to end on the shot of Rasputin tearing open the back of Sonia's dress. The uncut version continues the scene for another 20s climaxing as she gets into bed and Rasputin pulls the blanket off her (unseen) naked body.
• Two shots were shortened in the scene in which Peter is disfigured by acid in order to remove close shots of Peter's scarred face.

Hammer films in 2012 are appealing for information about lost footage from:

• an extended fight scene, saying that it was definitely filmed, but there is no known surviving materials. Film restorers have noted a burning log, that suddenly appears on the stone floor toward the end of the fight between Rasputin and Ivan (Francis Matthews),  a clear indication that there is definitely footage missing from this final fight
• Also for footage from a scene depicting the suicide of Sonia, if it was ever filmed.

The Reptile

See trailer from youtube.com
 

Best Available at:

best
available

UK: The cut Cinema Version (unconfirmed) was passed 15 without BBFC cuts for:

• 2012 Studio Canal R2 DVD/RB Blu-ray at UK Amazon
• 2006 Optimum R2 DVD
• 1984 Lumiere VHS

This is a newly restored version so will surely be the best available. However Hammer have put out a call trying to locate lost or censored footage from the following scene:

• An extended knife in neck/snake bite scene (this is thought to exist, but no known evidence).

This rather suggests that this is the footage censored from the 1966 cinema release and that it is still missing from home video releases

Summary Review: A Little Hammer Gem

The production was filmed back to back with The Plague of the Zombies, and used many of the same sets, including exterior shots in the grounds. It also shared the problems of a low budget.

When his brother Charles Spalding mysteriously dies, Harry Spalding and his wife Valerie decide to move to the inherited cottage in a small village in the country. They are coldly received by the locals. Harry and Valerie find that the locals are being killed by some snake and they feel threatened.

A tight and effective picture. There is a lovely sense of mystery dripping throughout the piece, and it's real nice to see a Hammer film being driven by its characters.

The performances from the cast are uniformly strong. The Reptile is a little Hammer gem waiting to be discovered.

• 1966 cinema release

The BBFC cut was described in The DarkSide magazine as:

• a gloating close-up during the lancing of a snake bite

Hands of the Ripper

Originally cut both for UK and US releases. Later uncut on UK home video and US Blu-ray

Summary Comments: Dark London Atmosphere

The infant daughter of Jack the Ripper is witness to the brutal murder of her mother by her father. Fifteen years later she is a troubled young woman who is seemingly possessed by the spirit of her father. While in a trance she continues his murderous killing spree but has no recollection of the events afterwards. A sympathetic psychiatrist takes her in and is convinced he can cure her condition. Soon, however, he regrets his decision.

Peter Sasdy filled this movie with a lot of dark London atmosphere, a straight on plot that never gets boring, good actors...and blood.

Unrated

• UK 2014 Network RB Blu-ray at UK Amazon
• 2006 Network R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2002 Carlton R2 DVD
• 1986 MIA VHS

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2013 Synapse (RA) Blu-ray/(R1) DVD Combo via UK Amazon and at US Amazon

• 1971 cinema release

The BBFC cuts were:

• Remove horror shots of Liz's eye gouged with pins - as she lies on the ground'
• It is also reported that a throat slashing was also removed

Note the BBFC noted a submitted time 88:39s. However this seems out of sync with all other reported runtimes. However stepping this down by one level of 24 to 25 frames per second correction to 85:06s results in a running time that is consistent with all other releases.

Demons of the Mind

• Blood Evil
• Blood Will Have Blood
• Nightmare of Terror

Cut by the BBFC for theatrical release. These cuts have persisted in all versions since. The 1990 Warner VHS was further cut by the BBFC

Summary Review: Lush Looking

A physician discovers that two children are being kept virtually imprisoned in their house by their father. He investigates, and discovers a web of sex, incest and satanic possession.

Lush looking and skillfully illustrated Hammer Gothic horror period piece that might not have the class of some other Hammer entries, but it sure was entertaining.

best
available

MPAA

• 2006 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon

UK: The Theatrical Version was passed X (18) after BBFC cuts for

• 1972 cinema release

US: The cut Theatrical Version is MPAA R rated for:

• 2002 Anchor Bay R1 DVD at US Amazon

It is assumed that the material cut for the Theatrical Version has been lost and that this is the best available version.

Thanks to Vincenzo. The BBFC cuts for the Theatrical Version were:

• Reel 4 - Reduce montage in which Fredericks wife is seen with gashes on her body.
   
• Reel 7 - Considerably reduce throttling of the village girl by Emil, remove shot of him stuffing earth into her mouth and remove, as far as possible, shots of her face afterwards, also remove shots of Fredericks wife cutting her throat.
   
• Reel 8 - Reduce the killing of Aunt Hilda by Emil, and remove the close shot of her dead face.
   
• Reel 9 - Reduce as much as possible the shots of Fredericks body after he has been transfixed by a stake and the sounds of the cries.

• 1990 Warner VHS

Thanks to Vincenzo. The BBFC additional cuts for video were:

• At 34m - During flashback montage superimposed on extreme close up of eye, after phrase on my wedding night remove visual of woman lying naked streaked with blood feeling her breasts as narrator shows excitement and disgust at the pain in the blood .
   
• At 66m - In intercuts between woman being strangled on grass and woman strangling herself on bed, remove brief shot of woman's corpse lying bare breasted on grass streaked with blood.

The Full Treatment

• Stop Me Before I Kill!

Passed X uncut for 1960 cinema release.

Summary Notes

High-strung race car driver Alan Colby is trying to recover from a serious head injury. Alan and his lovely new wife Denise go on vacation to the South of France for some much needed rest and relaxation. But Alan is having trouble resisting his more violent impulses. Suave local psychiatrist David Prade offers to help Alan out.

• 1970 cinema release

The Shadow of the Cat  

Passed X after BBFC cuts for the 1961 cinema release. Unreleased until cuts were waived for the 12 rated DVD in 2014.

Summary Review: Efficient and Entertaining

Nominally made by BHP Productions for contractual reasons, but nevertheless it was actually made by the Hammer Films team.

Was it supernatural force or psychotic compulsion . . . that drove five maddened murderers to destroy themselves? ... Or maybe just a cat.

The film moves confidently and swiftly along. Director John includes enough shocks to hide the holes in the plot, and to keep it interesting. The cast do their jobs efficiently and entertainingly.

• 2014 Media Sales/Final Cut R2 DVD at UK Amazon

• 1961 cinema release

The BBFC cuts were:

• cuts to reduce the opening murder

Taste of Fear

• Scream of Fear

Uncut in the US and UK

Summary Review: Edge-of-the-seat

A wheelchair-bound young girl returns to her father's estate after ten years, and although she's told he's away, she keeps seeing his dead body on the estate.

An edge-of-the-seat Hammer thriller scripted by Jimmy Sangster and directed by Seth Holt.

If you like Hammer films and Hitchcock-style thrillers then this film is a real treat.

• 2010 Sony R2 DVD at UK Amazon

UK: Passed X (16) uncut for:

•  1961 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2015 Mill Creek Entertainment [Hammer Film Collection Vol 1] R1 DVD at US Amazon
• 2008 Sony Icons of Horror Collection R1 DVD at US Amazon

Maniac

• The Maniac

See trailer from youtube.com

UK: Passed X after BBFC cuts for:

• 1963 cinema release

The BBFC noted the submitted running time as 88:55s

Summary Review: Forgotten

An American painter has an affair with a bar owner is a French village and agrees to help her murderer husband escape from a prison for the criminally insane.

No DVD releases to date. Perhaps due to the film being let down by some poor acting. Script, direction and photography are said to be good though.

Paranoiac

Cut by the BBFC for an X rated cinema release in 1963. The same cut version has been released since

Summary Review: Efficient thriller

Wealthy psychotic who is is coddled by his aunt in their palatial mansion is visited by his supposedly long lost brother.

An odd, low key black & white film is beautifully directed by Freddie Francis. The plot has plenty of twists and turns to keep you off guard.

The acting is good. Reed especially is fantastic, his violent rages are frightening and you can always see the madness lurking underneath him.

An efficient thriller which keeps you entertained and guessing. Recommended.

best
available

Cinema
submitted
80:29s

• 2010 Eureka R0 Blu-ray at UK Amazon
• 2010 Eureka R2 DVD at UK Amazon

It seems likely that the Eureka release was the same 1963 cut cinema release but this is not absolutely confirmed. See article from dvdoutsider.co.uk .

UK: Passed X after BBFC cuts for:

• 1963 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2014 Universal Hammer Horror Series R1 DVD at US Amazon
• 2008 Sony Icons of Horror Collection R1 DVD at US Amazon

Nightmare

• Here's the Knife, Dear: Now Use It

Cut by the BBFC for its 1964 cinema release. The consensus is that US and European DVD releases are uncut

Summary review: One of the best

Janet is a young student at a private school; her nights are troubled by horrible dreams in which she sees her mother, who is in fact locked in an insane asylum, haunting her. Expelled because of her persistent nightmares, Janet is sent home where the nightmares continue.

This is one of the best of Hammer's horror/thrillers. It is more than likely overlooked because it does not have an major stars in it.

Imaginative production, courtesy of Hammer regulars Freddie Francis and Jimmy Sangster, makes it a compelling mystery oozing with a Gothic atmosphere.

• It R2 DVD at UK Amazon

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2014 Universal Hammer Horror Series R1 DVD at US Amazon
• 2005 Universal Hammer Horror Series Set R1 DVD   at US Amazon

The consensus is that US and European DVD releases are uncut

• 1964 cinema release

Fanatic

• Die! Die! My Darling!

See trailer from youtube.com

Best availalble at:

best
available

Unrated

UK: Passed 15 without BBFC cuts for moderate violence and sexual threat for:

• 2006 Sony R2 DVD titled Die! Die! My Darling! at UK Amazon

US: Unrated for:

• US VOD to buy [US only] at US Amazon
• 2003 Sony R1 DVD titled Die! Die! My Darling! at US Amazon

It is not known whether the BBFC cinema cuts still apply or not.

Summary Review: Effectively creepy

A young woman is terrorized by her fiance's demented mother who blames her for her son's death.

This effectively creepy little Gothic horror tale is one of Hammer's finest psychological-thrillers

Tallulah Bankhead in her last film manages to be both amusing and terrifying at the same time. It's a blissful performance, it's her finest hour on screen.

• 1965 cinema release titled Fanatic

The BBFC noted the submitted running time as 96:47s = 92:55s PAL

Hysteria

See trailer from youtube.com

Uncut at:

Unrated

UK: Passed 15 uncut for:

• 1986 MGM/UA VHS

UK: Passed X (16) uncut for:

• 1965 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2011 Warner R0 DVD-R via UK Amazon and at US Amazon

Summary Review: Still Enjoyable

An American wakes up in an English hospital unable to remember anything of his life before a recent car accident. With only a photograph torn from a newspaper to guide him, and an unknown benefactor, he attempts to unravel what looks increasingly like a bizarre murder.

Not the best of Sangster's Hammer thrillers but holds up well and is still enjoyable

The Nanny

See trailer from youtube.com

Uncut at:

UK: Passed 15 uncut for moderate horror and threat to children for:

• 2006 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 1989 Warner VHS

UK: Passed X (16) uncut for:

• 1965 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2008 20th Century Fox R1 DVD at US Amazon

Summary Review: Tense

Bette Davis stars as an English nanny whose sense of reality is clouded due to some deep dark secret in her past.

The film rachets up the tension from the very beginning.

The one problem, as with all films dealing with troublesome kids is that William Dix's Joey is so rotten in the beginning that one wants someone to knock him off. But watch this for Davis

Crescendo

There was a cut US PG rated theatrical version of Crescendo, but all other releases have been uncut

Summary Review: Psycho Genre

This is one of the last examples of Hammer's psycho genre, similar in style and plotline to those the company made in the early sixties such as Maniac, Paranoiac, Nightmare and Scream of Fear/Taste of Fear.

It probably isn't one of Hammer's greatest achievements but is by no means one of the worst. The photography is very effective in places and the setting is quite haunting in a picturesque kind of way.

Unrated

R Rated

• 1970 cinema release

US: Uncut and MPAA Unrated for:

• 2009 Warner R0 DVD-R via UK Amazon and at US Amazon

US: The original theatrical release was uncut and R Rated

• Noted as having removed nudity

Fear in the Night

Summery Review: Macabre macabre

A young woman recovering from a nervous breakdown moves with her husband to a boys' school, but finds herself being terrorized by a mysterious one-armed man - and nobody believes her.

Director Jimmy Sangster delivers enough startling imagery (Cushing's shattered glasses; a gloved prosthetic arm) and well-handled scenes of suspense to ensure that the film is certainly never dull. Fear in the Night is a solid slice of macabre entertainment.

PG

• 2007 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon

• 1994 Lumiere VHS

• 1972 cinema release

• 2002 Starz/Anchor Bay R1 DVD via US Amazon

Straight on Till Morning

• Dressed for Death

Cut by the BBFC for cinema release. It is unknown if these cuts persist to home video.

Summary Review: Incredibly bleak

A timid, withdrawn woman meets a man she believes is finally the love of her life, unaware that he is a vicious serial killer.

Incredibly bleak psychological thriller from Hammer really captures the darkest side of the sexual revolution. 

Tushingham is excruciatingly naive as the beleaguered mouse-child, Briant impossibly fey as the brooding beast-man, and the whole drama is absurdly lighthearted and gruesome at once. By far the best thing Hammer ever churned out.

• 2006 Optimum R2 DVD at UK Amazon

• 2002 Starz / Anchor Bay R1 DVD at US Amazon

• 1972 cinema release

Let Me In

Always uncut in the UK and US

Summary Notes

In Los Alamos, New Mexico, the twelve year-old Owen is a lonely and outcast boy bullied in school by Kenny and two other classmates; at home, Owen dreams of avenging himself against the trio of bullies. He befriends his twelve-year-old next door neighbor, Abby, who only appears during the night in the playground of their building. Meanwhile, Abby's father is a wanted serial-killer who drains the blood of his victims to supply Abby, who is actually an ancient vampire. Abby advises Owen to fight Kenny; however, soon he discovers that she is a vampire, and he feels fear and love for the girl. Meanwhile a police officer is investigating the murder cases, believing that it is a satanic cult.

• 2011 Icon Home Entertainment RB Blu-ray at UK Amazon
• 2011 Icon Home Entertainment R2 DVD at UK Amazon
• 2010 cinema release

• 2011 Anchor Bay Entertainment R1 DVD at US Amazon

The Resident

Always uncut in the UK and US

Summary Notes

In New York, Dr. Juliet Bliss Devereau of the Brooklyn General Hospital has ended her relationship with her boyfriend Jack and is seeking an apartment in Brooklyn to live alone. She finds a bargain in an old apartment building owned by the handsome and lonely Max and one night she misinterprets his signals and dates him. However she concludes that it is too soon to have a love affair and she asks Max to leave her apartment. However she does not know that Max is a deranged man obsessed on her and that he spies her from secret openings in her apartment.

• 2011 Icon Home Entertainment RB Blu-ray at UK Amazon
• 2011 Icon Home Entertainment R2 DVD at UK Amazon

• 2011 IMAGE R1 DVD at US Amazon

Wake Wood

Uncut for UK and US release

Summary Notes

Still grieving the death of their only child, Alice, a young couple relocate to the remote town of Wake Wood where they stumble on a group of villagers practising Pagan rituals. They soon learn that this ritual has the power to bring back the dead, and would allow them three dats with their beloved daughter.

They agree terms with the village leader (Timothy Spall) but then far bigger questions loom... what will they do when it's time for Alice to go back? Will she go back peacefully? Or are there more sinister forces at work?

Wake Wood is a genuinely creepy horror film that leaves you feeling more than a little bit unsettled after it is over. Filmed in suitably eerie locations in Ireland it is one of the most atmospheric films I have seen in a very long time.

• 2011 Technicolor/Momentum Pictures Home Ent R2 DVD at UK Amazon released on 28th March 2011
• 2011 cinema release

The Woman in Black

Cut by the BBFC for a 12 rating. Passed uncut at 15 but unreleased. Uncut in the US with a PG-13 rating

PG-13

• 2012 Technicolor/Momentum video not yet released

The BBFC commented:

The film was originally classified 12A for cinema release and 12 for video release after visual cuts, visual darkening and sound reductions were made in a number of scenes. This is the uncut version of the film, restoring the cuts and reductions originally made, and has been classified 15 for strong supernatural threat and horror.

US: Uncut and MPAA PG-13 rated for:

• 2012 CBS RA Blu-ray via UK Amazon and at US Amazon
• 2012 CBS R1 DVD via UK Amazon and at US Amazon

• 2012 Technicolor/Momentum RB Blu-ray
• 2012 Technicolor/Momentum R2 DVD
• 2012 cinema release

The BBFC commented:

Distributor chose to reduce moments of strong violence / horror in order to achieve a 12A classification. Cuts made in line with BBFC Guidelines and policy. A 15 classification without cuts was available.

In addition to the 6 seconds of visual cuts, substitutions were also made by darkening some shots and by reducing the sound levels on others.

See  Cutting Edge: BBFC Cuts to Woman In Black by Gavin Salkeld

• Sound effects edited to tone down the jump associated with Arthur spotting the ghost of the Woman In Black in a window of the house
• Sound effects edited to tone down the jump associated with the Woman in Black appearing behind Arthur standing at the same window as above
• Creepy claps of thunder muted when Arthurs spots ghostly children outside the house
• 4s of the hanging have been removed and details of the rest of the scene have been reduced via visual darkening, shadowing and muted sound
• 3s of a young girl taking a step whilst engulfed in flames have been removed
• Volume of a shrill scream from Nate turned down just after girl in flames scene.
• 4 cuts to the decomposed and injured faces of children. The BBFC darkened the scenes or else applied shadows.

From  Interview with David Cooke and Craig Lapper from  telegraph.co.uk . Senior BBFC examiner Craig Lapper explained:

• When we make cuts, people think in terms of 'snip-snip', but these days, with digital, there are so many other ways you can make a film more acceptable. You can suggest soundtrack changes and things like colour darkening, putting shadows in to obscure the more gory elements of a scene." So in The Woman in Black, we didn't hear the crack of the woman's neck as she hung from a noose – and, thanks to the cunning use of shadows, neither did we see her face.

From the 2012 BBFC Annual Report: Top film of 2012 for whinges

The film generating the majority of public feedback in 2012 was The Woman in Black. The film generated £21m in UK cinemas in 2012, making it the second most popular British film of 2012 after Skyfall. 134 of these cinema-goers complained that the film was too dark and unsettling for a 12A certificate. Some said the sense of threat, coupled with the theme of supernatural deaths of children in the film, was too disturbing for young audiences.

The Quiet Ones

Uncut in the UK (15 rated) and US (PG-13 rated).

Promotional Material

Jared Harris and Sam Claflin star in this British horror film inspired by real events. In the 1970s Professor Coupland (Harris) encourages a group of his university students, which includes Brian McNeil (Claflin), to undertake a dangerous experiment. To test the theory that poltergeists are created by negative human energy, Brian and his fellow students use a disturbed patient as their subject. However, the results of the experiment prove to be both terrifying and deadly. The film also stars Olivia Cooke and Erin Richards.

• 2014 Lionsgate R0 Blu-ray at UK Amazon released on 18th August 2014
• 2014 Lionsgate R2 DVD at UK Amazon released on 18th August 2014

US: Uncut and MPAA PG-13 rated for intense sequences of violence and terror, sexual content, thematic material, language, and smoking throughout for:

• 2014 Lionsgate RA Blu-ray at US Amazon
• 2014 Lionsgate R1 DVD at US Amazon

Woman in Black 2: Angel of Death

The film was passed 15 uncut for UK cinema release in 2014, Uncut and MPAA PG-13 rated in the US

Summary Notes

40 years after the first haunting at Eel Marsh House, a group of children evacuated from WWII London arrive, awakening the house's darkest inhabitant.

• 2015 Entertainment One RB Blu-ray at UK Amazon released on 13th July 2015
• 2015 Entertainment One R2 DVD at UK Amazon released on 13th July 2015

US: Rated PG-13 for some disturbing and frightening images, and for thematic elements.