For whatever odd reason, Vampire Circus ("The Greatest Blood-Show On Earth!") tends to get overlooked among Hammer Studios' exotic/erotic queue. Maybe that's because it isn't like other parasitic chapters in the company's long line (for one, being neither Dracula or Karnstein connected), though it appears to have inspired the surreal antics of Cirque du Soleil and Cirque Italia. If so, that's pretty darn impressive.
In regard to this specialized, Serbian-based, undead gem, authors/researchers Nige Burton and Jamie Jones, through Classic Monsters of the Movies, now grant a comprehensive curation of facts and details on director Robert Young and writers Jud Kinberg/George Baxt's outside-the-box, 1972 experiment.
Readers are treated to informative bios on Lalla Ward (Doctor Who's Romana II); David Prowse (Darth Vader and three Frankenstein Monsters: two for Hammer; one for Casino Royale '67); Thorley Walters (perhaps Hammer's most reliable thespian); Robert (Moon Zero Two) Tayman; Richard Owens; Anthony Corlan/Higgins; Laurence Payne; Domini Blythe; Lynne Frederick; Adrienne Corri; Elizabeth Seal; Robin Hunter; Mary Wimbush; Robin Sachs; Christine Paul; Skip Martin; Roderick Shaw; and John Moulder-Brown. Also included in this spinetingling issue are respectful nods to director Young (with Vampire Circus being his first feature), storytellers Kinberg and Baxt, and famed producers James and Michael Carreras, buffered by many significant (yet too often unsung), behind-the-scenes contributors.
Burton and Jones also insert their customary, Classic Monsters trivia/quote blocks, which add further flavor for the movie's history, while fringing their text (thanks to format-designer, Greg White) with stunning black-and-white and color photos, lobby-card and poster reproductions. (Vampire Circus generated some of Hammer's most lurid publicity, and this commemorative issue proves it.)
On the whole, this "ultimate guide" is an essential addition to any Hammer buff's library and an unfeigned dream come true for all Vampire Circus connoisseurs.
Don't delay! Copies of this Classic Monsters: Vampire Circus are selling fast.
https://www.classic-monsters.com/shop/product/vampire-circus-1972-ultimate-guide-magazine/
No comments:
Post a Comment