Truly a classic here, and an interesting vehicle for Peter Cushing. Even Christopher Lee puts in an appearance, though this is clearly Peter's film. Amicus is known for producing great horror films, and this is one of their best single story efforts.
The story begins in the mid 1800s but jumps almost immediately to modern England (Then 1965). Audiences get to see Peter Cushing in a non-period piece for once--a true rarity. Despite the modern setting and a very small budget, The Skull has plenty of atmosphere. It's environment actually serves to point out an unusual quality of Mr. Cushing's: The man appears to be late middle-aged no matter how old he actually is. Viewers may not have noticed this trend in earlier works, but Peter spends most of his acting career playing men who walk just the other side of the hill. On the rare occasions when his character must lash out, it gives his physical force a surprising quality, while at the same time displaying an almost feminine frailty about the performer. I mean this with no disrespect. In fact, I consider Mr. Cushing one of the top five horror actors of all time.
The rest of the cast round out the film well by simply being interesting and talented. Even the largely unknowns play their parts in a convincing way, and their faces will stand out in the horror fan's memory. You can also catch more than a peek of April Olrich in film's early scenes. An excellent actress and stage performer in her own right, she does much to set the mood for The Skull.
Though the plot involves the skull of the Marquis De Sade, it doesn't limit the story in any way. Those with no interest in that historic figure can still enjoy the film. The only real drawback to this piece is a bit of unexplained inconsistency. When the skull exorcises its power over mortal men, it often gives off a bright light. This light is sometimes steady, sometimes pulsing. It comes in shades of green, white, and yellow. There is apparently no rhyme or reason to these differences, save perhaps the constraints of budget.
For those who wish to see this classic, I can recommend the newer DVD release. The film has been restored to its original format and the colors come through brilliantly. Of course, for those who feel compelled the own a piece of horror history, the DVD print is what you'll want on your shelf--just hope it stays there....
