THE BLOOD SPATTERED BRIDE (1972) Poster Art

 

THE VISITOR (1979) Poster Art

I think the artwork for the foreign markets was much superior to what we got in the States.

The Bloody Pit #216 - UNKNOWN WORLD (1951)

I’m happy to have author David Annandale return to the podcast to talk about low budget genre cinema again! Severin has issued a fantastic Blu-Ray of the film UNKNOWN WORLD (1951) so we use this release to dig into the little-discussed science fiction movie. Often seen in terrible, dark prints in various places around the internet this one deserves more attention, so we were both thrilled that it is now sharp and beautiful in its black & white HD glory. Did it look this good in ’51?

For a film produced by a couple of special effects artists UNKNOWN WORLD certainly has a lot on its mind. It is one of the earliest examples of apocalyptic nuclear ‘doom warning’ movies and we wonder if that fact is why it is less well known than later movies with similar aims. We discuss the cast and crew of this nine-day wonder including the oddity of the primary actor not getting screen credit. Time is spent lamenting the very few acting roles of the female lead and rambling through the credits of several other actors as well. We point out the solid effects work and marvel over the fantastic matte shots. Of course, we do acknowledge the weaknesses of the film and how its (intentionally?) dull middle segment can make the running time seem longer than it actually is. So, strap yourself in the Cyclotram and lets go caving!

If you have anything to say about this film or any others that we have covered thebloodypit@gmail.com is the place to send them. We thank you for listening and we’ll be back soon. 

Wild, Wild Podcast - THE INVINCIBLE MASKED RIDER (1963)

Who is that mysterious masked hero? Sarge? No. Rosemary, the telephone operator? No. Penry, the mild-mannered janitor? Could be! Then again, it could also be Robin Hood, so don't be too sure. (It’s really Zorro – but don’t tell anyone I told you!) 

Join us once again as we huddle together inside the nearest large castle for protection against the plague (Is that Poe on the phone?) whilst doing our best to unmask the eponymous hero. We also discuss Weird Worcester, the UK's newest and best Italian-themed festival where Adrian had the time of his life as a disappointing Italian translator.

You can get in touch with us (we love hearing from you!), follow us on social media, buy our merch, and all that stuff, through our LINKTREE.

Video - THE INVINCIBLE MASKED RIDER (1963)

This Umberto Lenzi adventure film is the topic of the next episode of Wild, Wild Podcast! It's an excellent example of the Rapiers & Ruffles sub-genre and might surprise viewers who have only experienced Lenzi's later more rough and violent movies. Be aware that you can turn on the captioning and then, in settings, have YouTube translate them into English. Enjoy!

What I Watched in May 2025

THUNDERBOLTS* (2025) is not just one of the best of Marvel's superhero films. It is also a life affirming look at a group of people mired in serious depression who learn to be better and happier by helping each other. Watching these sad-sack characters, each of whom is at the lowest point in their adult lives, realize that the way forward is to focus on the folks around them that they can support. Every good hero story is about people helping each other survive and this one fits the bill. The group learns that even though they are broken, there are people that can piece you together as long as you try to do the same for them. THUNDERBOLTS is both funny and touching in ways I had not expected. 

The List

UNKNOWN WORLD (1951) – 5 (slow, dull journey to the center of the earth)

THE MEDIUM (1980) – 6 (Italian possession drama)

 

SEX IS CRAZY (1981) – 6 (Jess Franco’s episodic sex comedy)

 

SPECIAL AGENT (1935) – 7 (fast, fun criminal tale)

 

THUNDERBOLTS* (2025) – 9

 

DAMNATION ALLEY (1977) – 4 (rewatch on Blu)

I LOVE A MYSTERY (1945) – 7 (First of the series)

EXTERRITORIAL (2025) - 7 (German action film)

 

THE EQUILIZER 2 (2018) – 7 (well done action film)

THE UNKNOWN (1946) – 7 (third ‘I Love A Mystery’ film is a southern gothic)

FIRST SPACESHIP ON VENUS (1962) – 7 (rewatch on Blu – the shorter version)

UNTIL DAWN (2025) – 4 (some great cinematography and effects but ineffective)

 

THE AMATEUR (2025) – 7 (solid espionage/revenge thriller)

 

THE DEVIL’S MASK (1946) – 6 (second I Love A Mystery film)

THE PURCHASE PRICE (1932) – 5 (slight romantic comedy/drama with Barbara Stanwick)

SMILE BEFORE DEATH (1972) – 7 (sexy mystery from Italy – giallo?)

ASSASSINATION IN ROME (1965) – 6 (murder mystery from Italy)

AMUCK (1972) – 7 (rewatch on Blu) (giallo)

COMPANION (2025) – 8 (rewatch)

MISSION IMPOSSIBLE: FINAL RECONING (2025) – 6 (too long)

THE EXECUTIONER OF VENICE (1963) – 7 (excellent period drama/adventure) 

 

William Castle Films - Poster Art