The Damned (1962) – SSP270
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Pull up a chair, pour yourself something strong, and brace for a journey into one of Hammer Films’ most unusual and underrated horror classics. This week on the Scary Spirits podcast, Greg continues his ambitious quest to watch and review every Hammer Horror film by turning his attention to the dark and atmospheric 1962 British cult classic, The Damned.
Joining him is Karen as they dive headfirst into a film that blends Hammer Horror, science fiction, Cold War paranoia, and youthful rebellion into a chilling cinematic experience unlike anything else in the studio’s legendary catalog. Directed by Joseph Losey and featuring unforgettable performances, The Damned remains a fascinating hidden gem that deserves far more attention from horror fans and classic film enthusiasts alike.
Naturally, no visit to the darker corners of cinema would be complete without a properly wicked drink in hand. As they unravel the mysteries of the film, Karen and Greg sip on the specially crafted “Souls of the Damned” cocktail, a hauntingly delicious creation inspired by the movie’s unsettling themes and eerie atmosphere.
In the spirit of the late Oliver Reed, expect bold opinions, lively conversation, and a healthy appreciation for cinema that dares to be strange, dangerous, and unforgettable. Whether you’re a devoted Hammer Films collector, a fan of classic British horror movies, or simply curious about one of the studio’s most unique productions, this episode offers a spirited exploration of a film that still casts a long shadow more than sixty years after its release.
Raise a glass, step into the darkness, and join Scary Spirits as they uncover the secrets of The Damned and toast the restless souls trapped within.
Souls of the Dammed Cocktail
• gin
• tonic water
• fresh lemon
• fresh lime
• popping candy
• ice cubes
Instructions:
- Ahead of serving this, dilute a few drops of blue food colouring with water, then freeze in an ice cube tray.
- When you’re ready to serve the cocktail, mix 1 part gin with 2 parts tonic water in a cocktail shaker. Add lots of ice and shake vigorously for a few seconds.
- Fill a glass with the blue ice cubes (which you’ve frozen in advance), then strain the gin and tonic into the glass, over the ice.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice and stir gently.
- Garnish with a fresh wedge of lemon and a skewered piece of lemon peel.
- For the final surprise touch, top with a generous sprinkle of popping candy just before serving.
Source: thecraftygentleman.net
A Brief Synopsis: An American visiting England falls in love with the sister of a sadistic motorbike gang leader, who drives them away with his threats. The pair retreat to a hideaway in a dank cave beneath a military base, where a group of strange, abandoned children become their surrogate family. However, the children hide a grim and fatal secret.
Some of the topics discussed and highlights of this episode include:
- Radiation paranoia and the Cuban Missile Crisis are discussed.
- Karen tells us about the song “Black Leather Rock” which features prominently in this film.
- We learn why siblings should not marry.
- What are the symptoms of exposure to massive radiation?
- Karen tells us the value of a 1962 Jaguar XK-120.
- Greg makes a reference to the band The Sword.
Our rating of the film:
This movie was OK. It took us 3 cocktails to get through it.
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