by Jon Partridge
The life of a film critic can sometimes be tough. A well considered, insightful critique of a film can stir up a negative response from devout fans, other critics, and even filmmakers themselves. Typically these days it manifests as a tweet (direct or sub) or comment on the article, or in some incredible cases actual physical bodily harm. That’s typically as bad as it gets, but Theatre of Blood showcases perhaps the most extreme response to a negative review that makes this summer’s idiotic “GhostBro” backlash seem relatively tame.
After a string of poor reviews, Shakespearean actor Edward Lionheart (Vincent Price) seemingly takes his own life. Years later, the elite group of critics that destroyed his career start dying one by one, their deaths caused by elaborately staged set-pieces reminiscent of theater productions. As the bodies mount, the police begin to suspect that Lionheart never died after all.
The film draws from Shakespeare, not just in terms of floral dialogue but in inspiration for the murder of the critics. Think the mob stabbing of Julius Caesar in his namesake play, or the removal of “a pound of flesh” from The Merchant of Venice. It helps create some deliciously dark and often harrowing moments. The deaths of these critics are often driven by a pack of deranged vagrants, serving as Lionheart’s underlings and audience. The latter plays to the theatricality of Price’s character. Orchestrating the deaths of these critics is not enough; he milks each setup to allow the delivery of a performance as they meet their grisly fate. It only adds to the twisted nature of the piece.
It’s a tour de force from Price as he hams it up, reveling in the theatrics of the role. Diana Rigg is also excellent as Lionheart’s daughter Edwina, conveying both sorrow and ambiguity. The rest of the cast is made up by a host of wonderful British character actors, notably Arthur Lowe (Dad’s Army), Dennis Price (Kind Hearts and Coronets) and Jack Hawkins (Bridge on the River Kwai, Lawrence of Arabia). Even the smaller roles are wonderfully realized. Add to this an eclectic and handsome production design, playful camera work, and a impressive score, and it makes for a macabre delight.
THE PACKAGEAs you’d expect with a transfer of this age, there are a few scratches and dust specks apparent, but they do little to detract from a great looking film. Colors are vibrant yet natural, and detail is good. Blacks and contrast are a little lacking in some parts. Perhaps the biggest critique is the sound quality; audio, notably dialogue, is a little muted.
Special features include an Isolated Score Track and theatrical trailer. There is also a audio commentary recorded by film producer Nick Redman and film historian David Del Valle. The latter reveals he was a close friend of Price and so injects the commentary with numerous personal anecdotes, making it a very interesting listen. There is also a Twilight Time booklet included, showing stills and poster art from the film along with a short essay on the movie by film historian Julie Kirgo.
THE BOTTOM LINETheatre of Blood is a superb example of a bygone era of horror. A macabre tale enhanced by a wonderful Shakespearean flourish, quality cast and the magnificent talents of Vincent Price.
Theater of Blood is available now from Twilight Time in a limited edition release of 3000 units.