Horror Extreme Movie Catalog

Professor Barnard Quatermass (Brian Donlevy of "Gamera the Invincible") returns in "Quatermass 2," the sequel to Hammer Production's "The Quatermass Xperiment." This classic science fiction horror masterpiece is as excellent, if not superior, as the original. Professor Quatermass appears to have mellowed since we first met him; he displays more compassion towards his fellow man.

Professor Quatermass learns that meteorites of uniform size and shape are falling at regular intervals and landing in a particular site. Upon further investigation, he learns the landing site is near a top secret government facility that contains huge domes. He is told that synthetic food is stored in these domes? Synthetic food for whom . . . or what? The true nature of this facility is being kept a secret by a government conspiracy involving officials at high levels.

There is plenty of action in this movie. An angry mob of townspeople descend upon the facility and fight the guards who are nicknamed "zombies." It reminded me of a gothic horror film when the villagers attack a castle suspected of harboring a vampire. Many people are shot and killed. This film is similar to the "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" because humans are possessed by aliens and forced to protect the colony that has established itself at the facility.

If only "Quatermass 2" could've been filmed in color. The wounds on people's faces and arms would've appeared more grotesque. They were adequately described in detail but there is no substitute for living color. Too bad we learn so little of the creatures. Where exactly do they come from and why did they choose earth to colonize?

Some critics say "Quatermass 2" is the best of the Quatermass trilogy. I disagree. I think all three films are equally wonderful. Each one deals with alien colonization and should be watched in the order in which they were released. "Quatermass 2" is a must have for fans of science fiction horror and fans of Hammer Production.

Definitely one of my personal sci-fi favorites. Strong supporting cast. Well written and directed. I highly recommend this film. If you can't afford the more expensive dvd version, then, by all means, purchase a vhs copy. You won't be disappointed.