It's curtains for his critics!
The Premise
Theatre of Blood (released as Theater of Blood in the United States) is a 1973 British horror comedy film directed by Douglas Hickox. It stars Vincent Price as a deranged Shakespearean actor who takes revenge on his critics, using methods inspired by death scenes from the Bard's plays. Diana Rigg co-stars as his daughter and confidant. The ensemble supporting cast features Ian Hendry, Harry Andrews, Coral Browne, Jack Hawkins, Michael Hordern, Arthur Lowe, Robert Morley, Milo O'Shea, Diana Dors, Dennis Price, and Robert Coote in one of his final roles. The film was released by United Artists on March 16, 1973, receiving both critical and commercial success. Considered a cult film, Theatre of Blood is well-regarded by fans of Vincent Price, and was considered by both Price and Diana Rigg as one of their favourite of their own films. A stage adaptation was produced at the Royal National Theatre in 2005.
Why It Terrifies Us
Categorized under Black Comedy, Slasher, Theatre of Blood taps into fundamental fears. The 7/100 Scare Score is well-earned. The themes of fencing, revenge, decapitation continually haunt viewers long after the credits roll.
Into The Vault
Ready to dig deeper? The ScreamDesk Vault connects you to the architecture of fear.
- If you survived Theatre of Blood, you should read about Parents.
- If you survived Theatre of Blood, you should read about The Return of the Living Dead.
- If you survived Theatre of Blood, you should read about Meet the Feebles.