The Black Torment (1964)/The Brain (1962) in the PNW

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

This is a collection of media from the initial runs of "The Black Torment" (1964) in the Pacific Northwest. 1962's "The Brain" also appeared for the first time in the PNW on this bill. "The Black Torment" wouldn't be seen in Portland until 1966 on the bottom half of a bill with mondo movie "Macabro" (1966). Portland never got "The Brain."

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The Black Torment (1964)
“The Black Torment” is a 1964 British gothic horror film directed by Robert Hartford-Davis. The story revolves around Sir Richard Fordyke, a wealthy heir who returns to his ancestral home with his new bride, Elizabeth. However, rumors circulate that he secretly returned earlier and committed several murders. As the couple settles into Fordyke Hall, they encounter strange occurrences, including eerie sightings and unsettling events. The film delves into themes of suspicion, witchcraft, and a dark family history. If you enjoy suspenseful mysteries with a touch of the supernatural, this film is worth watching!

Director: Robert Hartford-Davis
Writers: Derek Ford, Donald Ford
Stars: Heather Sears, John Turner, Ann Lynn
Buy "The Black Torment" (1964) bluray on Amazon (SPONSORED)
Buy "The Black Torment" (1964) DVD on Amazon (SPONSORED)

The Brain (1962)
“The Brain” (also known as Vengeance and Ein Toter sucht seinen Mörder) is a 1962 UK-West German co-production science fiction thriller film directed by Freddie Francis. The story revolves around Dr. Peter Corrie and his colleague Frank Shears, who remove the brain from the corpse of tycoon Max Holt after an air crash. Corrie attempts to keep the removed brain alive in a chemical bath. However, the brain begins to hypnotically control Corrie, leading him to suspect that Holt was murdered. As the plot unfolds, Corrie becomes embroiled in a web of intrigue, framed for murder, and driven to uncover the truth behind Holt’s death. The film combines elements of crime, horror, and science fiction, with a dash of neurosis, art, and medical ethics. Director Freddie Francis skillfully balances suspense, eerie imagery, and unexpected twists, making “The Brain” an engaging watch for fans of genre-blending cinema.

Director: Freddie Francis
Writers: Robert Banks Stewart, Philip Mackie
Stars: Anne Heywood, Peter van Eyck, Cecil Parker
Buy "The Brain" (1962) DVD on Amazon (SPONSORED)

May 11, 1962 ad (Seattle)