Theatre of Blood

Critics' Comeuppance

So who's to say that, nine years after his death, Vincent Price isn't still hunting down the critics who dare slander his work in movies like Theatre of Blood? This is an especially curious entry in Price's filmography, as it's in the style of The Abominable Dr. Phibes and Dr. Phibes Rises Again, but revolving around a different character. Fortunately, the notion of a central theme to the murders is back, and they're often funny in their inventiveness. Price's character is an absurdly hammy Shakespearean actor hunting down the members of a circle of critics who trashed his career. Shakespeare references abound, so knowledge of some of the lesser known Bard plays would be necessary for maximum enjoyment.

Theatre followed both Phibes films, and carries over some key elements. Thankfully, having Price keep his lips sealed was not one of the retained characteristics, so we can actually see him act. It may be hammy, but it's written that way, and it's fun to watch. There are not one, but two Vulnavia characters. One is split 50/50 between dressing as a hip, hot chick and an overly-hip man. I won't even ask whose idea that was, but it was a bummer to not outfit her with outrageous costumes. The other is Diana Rigg slumming it something fierce. Theatre has a large chorus of indigents to help Price exact his revenge. The funny part is watching them play the least convincing drunks ever to grace the screen.