QUEEN OF OUTER SPACE (1958) Poster Art

I don't claim it's good but I will admit that I've watched it more than once!

 

LADY VAMPIRE (1959) a.k.a. Vampire Man

I discovered this film last night and watched it this afternoon because the internet is often a true wonder. The more accurate title is definitely Vampire Man but I understand the desire to give it the Lady title. Whatever it is called this is a wonderfully odd little hidden gem of Japanese supernatural horror that takes a novel approach to the idea of the bloodsucker myth. Here the vampire is capable of moving around comfortably in daylight but the direct rays of the moon transform him into a ravenously thirsty monster attacking the throat of any female within reach. He also casts a reflection in mirrors and uses golden crosses to immobilize past victims he likes to keep around as decorations. And he has a small group of Renfields including a dwarf, a bald muscle-man and a witch! Did I mention it is an odd movie? 

There is a very good subtitled copy available on the Sinister Cinema YouTube page HERE and I recommend it if you are the least bit curious.

 

Poster Art and Lobby Cards for DESTINATION MOON (1950)

 

Video - THREE CASES OF MURDER (1954)

I finally got around to watching this very British portmanteau that kept me amused for the duration. It is certainly worth seeing if you are searching for something a little different this Halloween season. 

THE NIGHT THE WORLD EXPLODED (1957) Poster Art and Lobby Cards

 

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. 

HOUSE ON HAUNTED HILL (1959) Poster Art and Lobby Cards

 

CONQUEST OF SPACE (1955) Lobby Cards and Poster Art