Elvira's Movie Macabre Season 5 Episode 12 The Two Faces of Dr Jekyll
- September 7, 1986
Elvira's Movie Macabre season 5 episode 12 features the classic horror film The Two Faces of Dr Jekyll. This 1960 film, directed by Terence Fisher, is based on the classic Robert Louis Stevenson novel, The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. The film stars Paul Massie as both Dr Henry Jekyll and his murderous alter-ego, Mr Hyde.
The Two Faces of Dr Jekyll tells the story of Dr Jekyll, a brilliant scientist who is convinced that he can isolate and control the evil side of human nature. Despite the warnings of his colleagues and his fiancee's father, Jekyll continues with his experiments, determined to prove his theory. When he succeeds in creating a potion that transforms him into Mr Hyde, Jekyll is horrified by the evil deeds that he commits while under the influence of his alter-ego. But as Hyde begins to take over more and more, Jekyll struggles to maintain his own sanity and identity.
Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, hosts this episode of Elvira's Movie Macabre with her usual style and humor, interspersing the film with her own comedic commentary and spooky skits. Elvira's iconic look - including her signature plunging neckline and tall black beehive wig - is on full display, as she introduces the film and provides context for the audience.
As the movie begins, Elvira notes that The Two Faces of Dr Jekyll is a classic example of a horror movie trope: the mad scientist. She points out that, in many horror films, the scientist is the one who creates the monster or unleashes the evil force. She also notes that Paul Massie, who plays both Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, won a special effects award for his performance, which required him to act opposite a slate painted with a portrait of his own face to represent the transformation between the two characters.
Throughout the film, Elvira provides her trademark commentary, cracking jokes and making quips about the action on screen. She also interrupts the film periodically to engage in her own spooky skits and commercials for fake products, such as a "Sarcophagus Salad" and a "Monster Mash" dance mix. These interstitial segments are a hallmark of Elvira's hosting style, and add an additional layer of entertainment to the film experience.
Despite the humor and campy fun provided by Elvira, The Two Faces of Dr Jekyll is a genuinely chilling film that explores themes of duality, morality, and the human psyche. As Dr Jekyll struggles to control his own impulses and the destructive influence of Mr Hyde, the audience is drawn into a suspenseful and unsettling narrative. The film's gothic atmosphere and eerie score add to the sense of unease, creating an immersive experience for the viewer.
In the end, Elvira wraps up the episode with her final thoughts on The Two Faces of Dr Jekyll. She notes that, despite its age, the film remains a classic example of horror cinema, and that the themes explored - the duality of human nature, the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition - are still relevant today. She also reminds viewers that, while the film may be scary, it's all in good fun - and that it's the perfect way to get in the Halloween spirit.
Overall, Elvira's Movie Macabre season 5 episode 12 is an entertaining and spooky viewing experience, blending classic horror cinema with the irreverent humor of its iconic host. Whether you're a fan of horror movies, or just looking for a fun way to celebrate Halloween, this episode is sure to deliver the thrills and chills you're looking for.