Blu-Ray Review: The House That Dripped Blood

Whilst today the name Hammer Horror is known all around the world, it was far from being the only British film production company which was making world-class horror during the 1960s and 1970s. Based out of Shepperton Studios, Amicus established a reputation for creating some of the best portmanteau horrors of the era. Similar is style to its more famous cousin, their output is often confused. The House That Dripped Blood is one of their best.

Inspector Holloway (John Bennett) is called in to investigate the disappearance of a film-star (Jon Pertwee) shortly after he rents an old country house. After hearing disturbing rumours about the domicile, he speaks to the estate agent (John Bryans) who outlines its dark past. Spread out over four stories and starring the likes of Christopher Lee, Ingrid Pitt, Peter Cushing and Denholm Elliott, director Peter Duffell’s film oscillates from creepy to outright terror and back again.

Written by Robert Bloch, a regular screenwriter for Amicus who also penned Psycho, The House That Dripped Blood is a fun and frightening omnibus which skilfully wraps four proponents into the history of the house. Whilst his cast is overflowing with horror cinema legends, it’s Pertwee who steals the show as the puckish actor. Like a fine wine, The House That Dripped Blood just improves with age. Tales of the gothic, the occult and the supernatural.

Special features:

• Audio Commentary with Director Peter Duffell and Author Jonathan Rigby

• Audio Commentary with Film Historian and Author Troy Howarth

• Interview with Second Assistant Director Mike Higgins

• ‘A Rated Horror Film’ – Vintage featurette featuring interviews with Director Peter Duffell and

Actors Geoffrey Bayldon, IngridPitt and Chloe Franks

• Theatrical Trailers

• Amicus Radio Spots

• Stills Gallery

• Reversible sleeve featuring new artwork by Graham Humphreys and original artwork

Limited edition contents:

• Rigid Slipcase Featuring New Artwork by Graham Humphreys