September 23, 2008

Hammer Films Begins Production on The Wake Wood

Yes, you read that headline correctly. You did see the words "hammer" and "films" placed together in the context of a new film production. The news is being reported over at Bloody Disgusting that Hammer Films has commenced production on a new original film called The Wake Wood.

wakewoodFans of the horror genre should be familiar with Hammer Films. Now, I freely admit that my knowledge of Hammer's history is shoddy at best, non-existent at worst. What I do know is that they have been a highly influential studio for decades. Through the 1960's and 1970's they produced some absolutely classic horror films, many starring legends Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing. Their films included fresh takes on the classics such as Dracula and Frankenstein, not to mention such oddities as The Legend of the 7 Golden Vampires. Simply put, if you like horror, you owe it to yourself to get some Hammer films in your collection.

Now, this production start is notable because there has not been a Hammer Film released since To the Devil a Daughter back in 1976. It will be interesting to see if this new film will be able to capture the feel of classic Hammer.

The Wake Wood is based on an original screenplay by David Keating and Brendan McCarthy. It concerns a couple (a vet and a pharmacist) grieving the loss of their 9-year old daughter to a vicious dog attack. They move to a small town where they learn that an ancient pagan ritual can give them three more days with their daughter.

This idea seems to be right for the Hammer banner, with potential for visceral scenes mixed with a healthy dose of psychological horror. The decision to move forward with the ritual cannot be an easy one, not to mention what happens at the end of the third day?

I have to say that I am eagerly awaiting this film, although I am not sure if it is the idea or the Hammer banner that has me more excited.

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