The original screen adaptation of H.G. Wells's science-fiction dystopia remains as deeply disturbing today as when it first terrorized the silver screen almost a century ago.
Considering its bygone era. the primitive creature designs and use of practical effects may come across to modern audiences as somewhat archaic and perhaps less illusionary by today's standards.
Even so, where Island Of Lost Souls delivers its most harrowing frights, is through the unflinchingly ruthless and cold-hearted portrayal of its megalomanic, god-playing villain, and the dark reality of his grotesque machinations - a PART Played to chilling effect by Charles Laughton.
Elsewhere, the very visceral depictions of a genetically modified society used as everyday slaves is hammered home in relentless style, working counterclockwise to their captures who live lives of indulgence and luxury.
There's something guttural about the ear-piercing primal screams that chill the crimson cold, and the DISTURBING origin stories of its spliced inhabitants leave a LASTING impression on the psyche.
Island of Lost Souls is simply a quintessential watch for fans of high-concept science fiction thrillers, enduring as indelibly today as it did upon first release.
In the mood for more classic horror movies? Why not sink your teeth into our ghastly First Man Into Space Review (1959)
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