A History of Horrors: The Rise and Fall of the House of Hammer

by Denis Meikle, Peter Cushing (Foreword)

A History of Horrors traces the life and spirit of the 'House of Hammer' from its fledging days of the late 1940s, through its successes of the 1950s and 60s, to its decline in the 1970s. Through the eyes of many of the studio's key players, and through the works of film critics and historians, the book paints a vivid and fascinating picture of the rise and fall of a film empire, offering what author Denis Meikle refers to as 'the truth behind that legend.'

Genres: Film, Nonfiction

420 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1996

Reviews

[Mary · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found the writing style a bit dull, but persevered because I love Hammer horror. After reading, my chief emotion was a profound disappointment over how Hammer's business was handled; it could have been so much more!

[Joel Manuel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Workmanlike, typically British history of Hammer Films which leaves the reader/Hammer fan rather sad about what might have been, had they made the movies the intended to make.

[Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this 1996 book and its stroll through Hammer horrors. The rebirth of Frankenstein, how horror began to take shape, Dracula, Hammer and the censors. Be ready for a fine photosection inside. Lust for a Vampire, all Hammer actors you ever heard of, Ingrid Pitt. After the fall, the spirit of Hammer... this remarkable summing up ends with all the movies and the cast. Highly recommended!