Review: Dr. Phibes Rises Again (1972)

Vincent Price fans, rejoice! The sequel to the beloved cult horror film, The Abominable Dr. Phibes, graced the screens in 1972 with Dr. Phibes Rises Again. This film is a delightful mix of horror, humor, and the unmistakable charm of Price himself. For those who appreciate the quirky and macabre flavors of early '70s horror, this sequel is an essential part of your collection.

Plot Summary

Picking up three years after the events of the first film, Dr. Phibes Rises Again follows our favorite mad scientist, Dr. Anton Phibes, as he embarks on a new quest. Awaking from a state of suspended animation, he discovers that a rare alignment of the planets presents a unique opportunity to resurrect his deceased wife. Phibes, with his assistant Vulnavia, heads to Egypt, where he believes the secret to eternal life lies. However, he's not the only one after this ancient secret. The journey is fraught with elaborate traps and a series of bizarre murders, all leading to a showdown in the mysterious desert tombs.

Performances

Vincent Price, as always, delivers a performance that's both menacing and oddly endearing. His ability to convey complex emotions through minimal dialogue is a reflection to his skill as an actor. Price's portrayal of Phibes is iconic, blending a sinister presence with a touch of dark humor. Robert Quarry joins the cast as Darius Biederbeck, an antagonist with his own mysterious motivations. Quarry provides a fitting counterbalance to Price, bringing a sense of urgency and rivalry to the narrative. Peter Cushing also makes a brief appearance, adding a touch of classic horror gravitas to the mix. The supporting cast, including Valli Kemp as Vulnavia, complements the leads well, each contributing to the film's eerie and whimsical atmosphere.

Direction and Craft

Directed by Robert Fuest, who also helmed the original, Dr. Phibes Rises Again maintains the unique style that made the first film a cult classic. Fuest's direction is marked by its visual flair, with elaborate sets and striking use of color. The film's art deco-inspired design and Egyptian motifs create a surreal and dreamlike quality, enhancing the otherworldly narrative. The kills are as inventive as ever, with a mix of camp and creativity that fans of the genre will appreciate. The script, co-written by Fuest and Robert Blees, melds dark comedy with horror in a way that feels both fresh and familiar. Although not as tightly plotted as its predecessor, it still provides plenty of entertainment.

Collector's Verdict

For fans of vintage horror, Dr. Phibes Rises Again is a unique addition to your collection. Its blend of horror and humor makes it a standout piece. The best format to own this film is Blu-ray, which offers the best visual and audio quality to appreciate the film's distinctive style. While not exceedingly rare, it is uncommon enough that owning a copy will be a point of pride for any collector. The film's charm lies in its eccentricity and the charisma of Vincent Price, making it a must-see for enthusiasts of classic horror.

With its unique blend of aesthetics and performances, Dr. Phibes Rises Again earns a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars. It may not reach the heights of the original, but it offers plenty for fans to enjoy and is a fascinating artifact of its time. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the genre, this film is a worthy addition to your horror library.