1960s Horror Movie ReviewsHorripilations Movie Reviews

Horripilations Review of Circus of Horrors (1960)

Circus of Horrors (1960) – Movie Review

Synopsis

"Circus of Horrors," directed by Sidney Hayers, is a British horror film released in 1960 that combines elements of psychological thriller and dark comedy in the setting of a circus. The film revolves around Dr. Rossiter, a disgraced plastic surgeon played by Anton Diffring, who has fled the law after performing a botched operation.

To escape his past and the relentless pursuit of the police, Rossiter assumes a new identity and integrates himself into the colourful and morally ambiguous world of a travelling circus. He becomes the man behind the scenes, revitalising the circus acts with his surgical skills while simultaneously attracting bizarre and grotesque performers who have suffered disfigurements and traumas. Among these performers are the beautiful trapeze artist, who becomes the object of Rossiter’s obsession, and the formidable characters that make up his twisted yet captivating ensemble.

As events unfold, Rossiter’s past continues to haunt him, and the story delves into themes of obsession, identity, and the nature of beauty versus monstrosity. The circus setting allows for a macabre exploration of the human condition, where the distinction between the freakish and the normal is blurred. As Rossiter’s transformation into a cruel showman unfolds, the film culminates in a gripping climax that highlights the consequences of his dual existence.

Cast

  • Anton Diffring as Dr. Rossiter
  • Yvonne Monlaur as the trapeze artist
  • Donald Pleasence as the circus manager
  • Michael Gough as the Ringmaster
  • Jane Hylton as the fortune-teller
  • Peter Breck as the strongman
  • Bobbie Comber as the contortionist
  • Milton Reed as the dwarf
  • Francesca Annis as Lily, the disfigured woman

Review

"Circus of Horrors" is a unique entry in the canon of horror films that emerged in the late 1950s and early 1960s, a period that witnessed the rise of a more campy and unconventionally ironic approach to the genre. Sidney Hayers crafts a film that encapsulates both charm and terror, taking the viewer on a journey that lurks at the intersection of lunacy and artistry.

From the outset, the film’s aesthetic captivates the viewer; the colourful chaos of the circus is superbly rendered, contrasting starkly with the somber and menacing storyline. The film makes effective use of the circus as a backdrop, an environment filled with vibrant colours, tantalising performances, and, more importantly, a chilling undertone of horror. The paradoxical nature of beauty and horror is beautifully represented through the circus performers, who rely on their contorted forms as part of their allure to the audience.

Anton Diffring delivers a captivating performance as Dr. Rossiter. His character is both charismatic and deeply unsettling—a duality that invites the audience to explore their own fascination with monstrosity. As Rossiter strives to construct a new identity, viewers are granted insight into his psyche, revealing a complex character motivated by desperation and a warped sense of beauty. Diffring’s portrayal captures both the fragility and the ruthlessness of a man on the brink, and he effectively conveys the ominous air surrounding Rossiter’s character, grounding the film’s inherent absurdity in a believable performance.

Yvonne Monlaur’s turn as the trapeze artist adds an emotional core to the movie. She embodies the struggle between desire and fear, torn between her aspirations as a performer and her moral reservations regarding Rossiter’s intentions. The chemistry between her and Diffring drives a significant portion of the film’s narrative, showcasing the tricky balance between attraction and revulsion. Donald Pleasence, known for his diverse range of roles, also shines as the circus manager, bringing a layer of complexity to the film with his subtle performance that hints at his own inner turmoil.

As for the production aspects, the cinematography of "Circus of Horrors" deserves praise for its effective framing and composition. The film blends both close-ups, drawing attention to the expressions of fear or desire on the actors’ faces, while also featuring wide shots that capture the overarching spectacle of the circus. It creates a juxtaposition between the intimate horrors that transpire and the public performances that both conceal and reveal the characters’ true natures.

While it can be said that the film occasionally treads into melodrama, it ultimately revels in its own outrageousness, a quality that contributes to its charm. Hayers makes little attempt to ground the narrative within a sense of realism, instead choosing to embrace an exaggerated performance style. This inherent exaggeration enables the movie to rise above its plot points, allowing the absurdities to become endearing and entertaining rather than merely ludicrous.

The pacing of the film is largely effective, balancing moments of frenetic tension with quieter introspective scenes. However, there are instances where the film begins to feel somewhat bloated, especially in its mid-section. Some storylines, such as the development of secondary characters, could have benefited from a more focused narrative arc, allowing for deeper exploration of their individual motivations. Nevertheless, these minor critiques do not detract significantly from the overall viewing experience.

The thematic exploration of beauty and monstrosity is perhaps the film’s most notable accomplishment. "Circus of Horrors" challenges viewers to contemplate their perceptions regarding these societal constructs while simultaneously questioning the dichotomy between the performer and the audience. If horror serves as a mirror reflecting cultural anxieties, this film wields that mirror effectively, showcasing the inherent fears surrounding societal judgement and the sacrifices made for acceptance in the pursuit of beauty.

In the end, "Circus of Horrors" thrives on its ability to blend horror with spectacle, tapping into the allure of the grotesque. It is a compelling look at humanity’s darker desires wrapped in the visual delight of the circus, offering a campy yet thought-provoking narrative that keeps audiences entranced throughout its runtime.

Conclusion

"Circus of Horrors" stands as an engaging and somewhat campy horror film that, while falling into the traps of melodrama at times, delivers an entertaining narrative that keeps the audience on edge. Its exploration of beauty, obsession, and identity within the context of a circus setting provides a rich tapestry for both horror and dark comedy. Anton Diffring’s captivating performance, combined with the film’s striking visuals, make for an interesting piece that resonates with viewers interested in the more bizarre aspects of human nature.

Ultimately, while not without its flaws, "Circus of Horrors" offers a memorable experience that captivates audiences with its eerie charm.

Score: 7.5/10

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