Lost Reels’ series of classics, curios and forgotten gems on 16mm continues with a Halloween Special featuring a rare screening of Terence Fisher’s elegiac gothic horror, Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell and a conversation with lead actress Madeline Smith.

Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell (1974), directed by Terence Fisher. Run time: 95 minutes.

The last of Hammer’s Frankenstein films, director Terence Fisher’s swansong, and Peter Cushing’s final turn as the Baron, Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell (1974) was Hammer’s last stand in its classic, trademark gothic horror style. Eschewing the titillation and nudity prevalent through much of their 1970s period, the film instead echoes the studio’s illustrious past, rejecting the influences of modern American horror filmmaking with which it was increasingly – and unsuccessfully – competing. Released in the UK the same month as The Exorcist (1974), the attempt proved futile, and despite its technical excellence and a brilliant performance by Cushing, the film was considered a disappointment. Set in the desperate confines of a lunatic asylum, Frankenstein (Cushing) now posing as “Dr. Victor” the asylum doctor, continues his experiments with the help of a new inmate and acolyte, Dr. Helder (Shane Briant) and mute assistant, Sarah (Madeline Smith). With a supporting cast of Hammer stalwarts including David Prowse, Patrick Troughton, David Stratton, Sydney Bromley, and in a moving cameo, Bernard Lee, the reputation of Fisher’s final project continues to grow, and it is now considered one of Hammer’s finest latter-day achievements. The gloomy, elegiac tone, considered a handicap upon initial release, now seems entirely fitting – even essential – with Hammer historian and author Marcus Hearn observing, “Terence Fisher’s haunting, melancholy swansong would be an epitaph for Hammer horror itself.”

16mm print courtesy of Lost Reels.

A conversation with Madeline Smith

Madeline Smith is an actress and model who rose to prominence in film and television in the 1970s and appeared in three Hammer horror films: Taste the Blood of Dracula (1970), The Vampire Lovers (1971) and Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell (1974). In the same period, she acted in Roddy McDowall’s sole directorial effort, The Ballad of Tam Lin (1970) and Douglas Hickox’s cult black comedy Theatre of Blood (1973) with Vincent Price. Her other film work in the 70s included the film adaptation of Up Pompeii (1972) with Frankie Howerd, the film version of the classic children’s ghost story, The Amazing Mr. Blunden (1972) directed by Lionel Jefferies, and her role as Miss Caruso in the first Roger Moore Bond film, Live and Let Die (1973). Madeline was also a frequent face on British television, appearing in many popular comedy and drama series including, The Persuaders!, The Two Ronnies, Crown Court, Steptoe and Son, and the BBC adaptation of The Pickwick Papers. Most recently, Madeline played a cameo role in Mark Gatiss’ TV remake of The Amazing Mr. Blunden in 2021.

Special thanks to Madeline Smith for her support and participation.

Lost Reels is an independent film organisation dedicated to bringing forgotten, lost, or unavailable films back to UK cinemas. The 16mm series celebrates the modest and enduring 16mm format by screening classics, curios, and forgotten gems, mostly as double bills. Events consist of a well-known title paired with something more unusual, obscure, or even radical. The goal is to make each programme feel inspired. Visit Lost Reels at lostreels.co.uk and follow on Twitter and Instagram at @lostreelsuk.

Doors open at 17.00, for a 18.00 start. The film will be preceded by an introduction, followed by the screening and conversation with Madeline Smith. We will end with a raffle for a Frankenstein and the Monster from Hell poster by artist Graham Humphreys. The event will finish around 20.30.

Refreshments will be available in our licensed cafe/bar.

TICKETS & PRICING

Tickets £12 in advance or on the door.

Advance tickets may be purchased from Ticketlab, or direct from the Museum by calling 020 7840 2200 in office hours.