Amicus Productions is coming back from the dead for a brand new horror anthology. In the Grip of Terror is the first production from the studio since 1976. Amicus was behind several classic British horror films of the ‘70s, particularly anthologies, so this is a return to form for the company. They have announced the completion of the first segment of this upcoming anthology and, to commemorate that, have released some first-look photos.
The first of four tales in the anthology, this one is an adaptation of Ambrose Bierce's A Watcher by the Dead. Originally published in 1889, it focuses on some poor soul having to spend the night locked up in a room with a corpse. As one might imagine, things go awry. The photos, which you can check out below, offer a glimpse at what Brewster has cooked up. It was filmed “in a style that evokes the spirit of the golden era of British horror.” It also features 60's throwback make-up and cinematography inspired by early ‘70s Amicus films such as Asylum (1972), The House That Dripped Blood (1971) and Vault of Horror (1973). Brewster had this to say about it:
“Reviving Amicus Productions has been a labor of love, inspired by the classic era of British horror. Our goal is to champion traditional storytelling with a stylised nod that respects the past, and cherishes our roots.”
The cast includes Michael Daviot as Helberson, a stern and calculating doctor driven by a morbid curiosity about death; Megan Tremethick (Miss Amicus) as Nurse Charlotte Gibbon, a charming femme fatale with a hidden agenda; Dorian Todd as Mancher, a brash and skeptical young doctor determined to debunk superstitions; and Sam Barclay as Harper, a nervous and superstitious medical assistant who fears the supernatural.
The anthology also includes adaptations of Cool Air by H.P. Lovecraft, And the Dead Spake by E.F. Benson and A Diagnosis of Death by Ambrose Bierce. The production has the full support of the Amicus co-founder Milton Subotsky’s estate, with Sergei and Dmitri Subotsky serving as Executive Producers. Brewster also serves as a producer on the anthology alongside Sarah Daly.
In the Grip of Terror is being billed as something of a community endeavor. Amicus has launched the British Horror Studio project on Patreon, which is free to join. Members can access exclusive behind-the-scenes content, articles about the making of the films and a peek behind the curtain at the challenges faced by independent filmmakers.
In the Grip of Terror does not currently have a release date, but stay tuned. For more, check out our list of the best horror anthology films.
