Dr. Orloff's Monster / El secreto del Dr. Orloff (1964)

A mad scientist creates a hideous monster to carry out his murderous plans.

Director: Jesus Franco
Cast: Hugo Blanco, Agnes Spaak, Perla Cristal, Marcelo Arroita-Jauregui, Pepe Rubio, Pastor Serrador, Marta Reves, Daniel Blumer, Luisa Sala, Manuel Guitian, Mer Casas, Rafael Hernandez, Jose Truchado, Juan Antonio Soler, Javier de Rivera, Julio Infiesta, Ramon Lillo, Julia Toboso, Maribel Hidalgo, Jesus Franco, Magda Maldonado




Extras:
- For the first time in its uncut original version restored by 86 minutes.
(Equivalent to about 90 minutes at the cinema and NTSC)
- French and English dubbed versions
- Italian Trailer
- Rare Super-8 version _The Demon Doctor
- Original French Trailer
- Alternative takes and breakdowns




IMDb

Although made on a shoestring budget and as a sequel to The Awfull Dr. Orloff, this is a very enjoyable flick and a fine example of early Southern European horror. It's actually better than it's predecessor.

The plot is not real important (it contains a zombie-like creature, a castle and a mad scientist). What makes this movie is the mood, the often beautiful camera-angles, the art direction and the hints of later Franco movies.

For example, there's several scenes with women performing, often in erotic scenes, with men watching - which is exactly the kind of voyeuristic cinema Franco would turn to in later years (Vampyros Lesbos, Demoniac).

There's - of course - quite some nudity, which must have been considered quite risque in 1964. And there's a small cameo for the director himself, as a pianist who seems to be blind…..

Also of interest is the use of electronic devices used to make the zombie a murderous weapon, they give a strange effect to the movie and reminded me of early 50's sci-fi B-movies.

All in all, recommended for Franco fans and b/w horrormovie fans. If you've never seen a Franco I suggest starting with Vampyros Lesbos or Female Vampire.
~ Tim

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