The Abominable Dr. Phibes (1971)

The name Vincent Price is synonymous with the classic horror genre. His iconic roles in films like House of Wax, The Fly, and Theatre of Blood have cemented his legacy as a master of the macabre. If you happen to be looking for a single film that encapsulates his full range of talents, The Abominable Dr. Phibes from 1971 is an excellent choice.

Five years after the sudden death of his beloved wife, the eponymous Dr. Phibes (Price) begins to kill off those he deems responsible. How he goes about each murder forms the crux of the film. When Scotland Yard notices that medical professionals all over London are quickly dying due to unusual causes, Inspector Trout (Peter Jeffrey) takes the case. As he tries to find some connection between the murders, he discovers that all of the victims had some connection to the former Mrs. Phibes. But her husband is eliminated as a suspect because he’s dead. But is he, really?

Price is the incomparable Dr. Anton Phibes, a role as distinctive as the actor himself. Phibes, a character renowned as a musician and biblical scholar, is brought to life by Price’s masterful blend of flamboyance, sorrow, and menace—a mix that only he could deliver. The film that the character is built around is a wonderful fusion of dark British comedy, early 70s British horror, and unique art deco set design that’s all been filmed as if it was an episode of the 1966 Batman TV show. I mean that as a compliment. It may sound like a mess, but it works perfectly.

Did I mention that Price doesn’t speak on camera? As the result of an accident, the character of Dr. Phibes “speaks” via a microphone that plugs into a socket on his neck. His voice emanates from an amplifier, but his lips don’t move. On camera, Price has to gesticulate theatrically as well as manipulate his Adam’s apple to convey the emotion as well as the physical act of forming his words. It’s difficult to articulate, but Price manages to accomplish it without appearing silly.

Thanks to marvelous supporting work from Joseph Cotten, Peter Jeffrey, Terry-Thomas, and Virginia North, as Phibes’ silent, but dutiful, assistant, the film remains in good hands when Price isn’t onscreen. Even though the script, written by James Whiton and William Goldstein, requires a strong suspension of disbelief, it provides a grisly good time if you allow it. And just as a side note, the film features elements that could have inspired the distinctive puzzles in the Saw series.

If you’re a fan of classic horror films and you haven’t seen The Abominable Dr. Phibes, please correct this oversight immediately.