The Evil of Frankenstein

Synopsis

In 'The Evil of Frankenstein,' the third installment in Hammer Horror's Frankenstein series, Peter Cushing reprises his iconic role as the infamous scientist, Baron Victor Frankenstein. Set in the dark, eerie landscapes of Bavaria, Frankenstein's obsession with creating life leads him to unearth his original creature, which has been living in a secluded cave. As the creations arise from the shadows, so do the challenges of controlling them. Dr. Frankenstein's relentless ambition ignites chaos, bringing terror to the local villagers and raising moral questions about the boundaries of scientific experimentation. Haunted by his creation, Frankenstein must confront the very monster he has awakened, leading to dramatic confrontations teeming with suspense. The film captures the dark essence of gothic horror through atmospheric cinematography and chilling performances, grounded in Cushing's powerful portrayal of obsession and madness in the unending quest for life.

Cast

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  Peter Cushing

  Baron Frankenstein

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  Peter Woodthorpe

  Prof. Zoltan

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  Duncan Lamont

  Karlstaad

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  Sandor Elès

  Hans

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  Katy Wild

  Beggar Girl

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  David Hutcheson

  Bürgermeister

Reviews

Upon its release, The Evil of Frankenstein received mixed reviews, reflective of its place within the Hammer Horror franchise. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 6.0/10, indicating a moderate reception among viewers. Rotten Tomatoes, meanwhile, awarded the film a score of 57%, highlighting a divide in critical opinion. Critics appreciated Peter Cushing's compelling performance, stating, 'Cushing is impressive as always, bringing depth to the character of Frankenstein' (Horror News). However, some reviews pointed out weaknesses in the plot and pacing, with critics noting that the film 'struggles to maintain the tension and lacks the spark of its predecessors' (The Guardian). Despite this, it has found a niche audience for its unique blend of gothic horror and camp, with one viewer commenting, 'It's not the best in the series, but Cushing elevates it with his presence.' Overall, while not universally acclaimed, 'The Evil of Frankenstein' remains a noteworthy entry for fans of classic horror films.