Tomb of Ligeia/War of the Zombies (1964) in the PNW

Details: Written by: Mortado; Category: The 1960s in Northwest Cinemas

This is a collection of media from the initial runs of "Tomb of Ligeia" (1964) in the Pacific Northwest. "War of the Zombies" rounded off this double-bill.

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Tomb of Ligeia (1964)
“Tomb of Ligeia” is a haunting tale of love and obsession transcending life and death's boundaries. The film, directed by Roger Corman, is an adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe’s short story “Ligeia” and stars Vincent Price in a gripping performance.

The story unfolds with the enigmatic and brooding Verden Fell, who is deeply mourning the loss of his beloved wife, Ligeia. Despite her death, Fell’s devotion to Ligeia remains unwavering, and he harbors a belief that her will was too strong to succumb to the finality of death. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters the vibrant and headstrong Lady Rowena, who resembles his late wife.

As Fell grapples with his past and the memories of Ligeia that continue to haunt him, he and Rowena embark on a tumultuous relationship marked by eerie occurrences and a pervasive sense of the supernatural. The presence of a mysterious black cat and the shadowy atmosphere of the ruined abbey where Ligeia is entombed add to the film’s gothic ambiance.

“Tomb of Ligeia” weaves a complex web of psychological intrigue and spectral mystery, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats as they ponder the true extent of Ligeia’s influence from beyond the grave. It’s a classic piece of cinema that masterfully captures the essence of Poe’s original work while providing a chilling and atmospheric experience.

Director: Roger Corman
Writers: Edgar Allan Poe, Robert Towne, Paul Mayersberg
Stars: Vincent Price, Elizabeth Shepherd, John Westbrook
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War of the Zombies (1964)
“War of the Zombies” is a 1964 Italian film combining action, drama, adventure, and horror elements to create a unique cinematic experience. The original Italian title is “Roma contro Roma,” which translates to “Rome Against Rome,” hinting at the internal conflict that forms the crux of the story.

Set against the backdrop of the Roman Empire, the film follows the story of Gaius, a Roman centurion sent to investigate strange occurrences in the province of Salmacia. Upon his arrival, Gaius discovers a cult dedicated to a Moon Goddess, led by the high priest Aderbad, who has a dark and ambitious plan. Aderbad intends to resurrect the spirits of fallen Roman soldiers to form an undead army to conquer Rome itself.

As Gaius delves deeper into the mystery, he encounters Rhama, an enslaved girl who becomes his ally. Together, they face the daunting task of stopping Aderbad’s sinister scheme. The film builds up to a climactic battle that pits the living against spectral warriors in a fight for the future of Rome.

“War of the Zombies” is a tale of intrigue and supernatural forces, where the lines between life and death blur, and the fate of an empire hangs in the balance. It’s a story that captures the imagination with its blend of historical drama and fantastical elements, making it a memorable entry in the peplum genre of the time.

Director: Giuseppe Vari
Writers: Ferruccio De Martino, Massimo De Rita, Piero Pierotti
Stars: John Drew Barrymore, Susy Andersen, Ettore Manni

April 27, 1965 ad (Portland)