The Skull (1965)/The Mad Executioners (1963) 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 Skull" (1965) in the Pacific Northwest. "The Mad Executioners" (1963) accompanied it.

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The Skull (1965)
“The Skull” (1965) is a chilling horror film directed by Freddie Francis. The story follows Dr. Christopher Maitland, a collector of rare and unusual artifacts. His latest acquisition is the skull of the infamous Marquis de Sade, which he obtains from a dubious dealer. However, this is no ordinary relic; the skull is said to be possessed by a malevolent spirit. As Dr. Maitland delves deeper into the skull’s dark history, he begins to experience terrifying visions and inexplicable events. The film masterfully builds suspense, blending psychological horror with supernatural elements, and features strong performances by Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee. “The Skull” is a gripping tale of obsession and the supernatural, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.

Director: Freddie Francis
Writers: Robert Bloch, Milton Subotsky
Stars: Peter Cushing, Patrick Wymark, Christopher Lee
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The Mad Executioners (1963)
“The Mad Executioners” (1963), directed by Edwin Zbonek, is a gripping crime horror film set in London. The story revolves around a mysterious group of hooded vigilantes who take the law into their own hands. These masked avengers capture criminals who have evaded justice, subject them to a secret trial, and execute them using a stolen hangman’s rope from Scotland Yard’s Black Museum. As the bodies of these executed criminals start appearing around the city, Scotland Yard is thrown into turmoil, trying to uncover the identity of the vigilantes. Simultaneously, a separate investigation unfolds involving a serial killer who decapitates his victims. The film intertwines these two chilling narratives, creating a suspenseful and eerie atmosphere.

Director: Edwin Zbonek
Writers: Bryan Edgar Wallace, Robert A. Stemmle
Stars: Hansjörg Felmy, Maria Perschy, Dieter Borsche

September 28, 1965 ad (Portland)