Variety announced yesterday the exclusive of Hammer Films being back from the dead!
In a remarkable twist of fate, Hammer Films and Studios have risen from the ashes, thanks to the visionary leadership of British theater impresario John Gore. Known for his outstanding contributions to live theater through the John Gore Organization, which owns Broadway.com and Broadway Across America, John Gore is a 20-time Tony, Emmy, and Olivier-winning entertainment producer. His triumphant return to the cinematic realm has ignited excitement and anticipation within the world of film and horror enthusiasts alike.
Hammer Films, a name synonymous with horror, was founded in 1934 and became a pioneering force in the genre, particularly in Britain. With iconic classics like “Dracula” (1958), “The Curse of Frankenstein” (1957), and “The Mummy” (1959), Hammer Films propelled Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing to stardom and spawned a multitude of successful sequels. Beyond these legendary titles, Hammer Films also delivered gems such as “One Million Years B.C” (1966), starring Raquel Welch, and “She” (1965), starring Ursula Andress. Their extensive library boasts timeless treasures such as “The Woman in Black” (2012), “Let Me In” (2010), “The Abominable Snowman” (1957), and “The Quatermass Experiment” (1953).
In 2021, Hammer Films embarked on a new journey when it partnered with the U.K.’s Network Distributing to form Hammer Studios Ltd. However, the untimely passing of managing director Tim Beddows in 2022 cast a shadow over the venture, leading to Network’s liquidation.
Under the capable leadership of John Gore, a renewed sense of purpose has emerged for Hammer Films. The plan is to infuse the studio with substantial investments, rejuvenating it with a blend of nostalgic charm and modern cinematic innovation while preserving its rich heritage and vast content library. This transformation will introduce a fresh slate of films and projects to captivate audiences worldwide.
The inaugural offering from this reimagined studio is “Doctor Jekyll,” produced by B Good Picture Company and featuring acclaimed actors Eddie Izzard and Scott Chambers, under the directorial helm of Joe Stephenson. This eagerly awaited production is set for a theatrical release later this year, promising to capture the essence of Hammer’s legendary storytelling.
John Gore expressed his profound connection to Hammer Films, stating, “Ever since I was a young boy, I’ve been enchanted by the magic of Hammer Films. Its stories, its characters, and its unique place in British heritage and cinema have been a source of inspiration and wonder. Today, as I stand at the helm of this iconic studio, my commitment is twofold: to celebrate and preserve the unmatched legacy of Hammer and to usher in a new era of storytelling that captivates audiences worldwide. With significant investment and a fresh creative vision, we will ensure that the spirit of Hammer not only endures but thrives in the modern age.”
The revival of Hammer Films comes on the heels of the resurgence of another iconic British horror brand, Amicus, marking a thrilling era for fans of classic and contemporary horror cinema. As Hammer Films prepares to embark on its new cinematic journey, the world eagerly awaits the resurrection of this legendary studio’s timeless tales of terror and suspense, ensuring that its legacy remains etched in the annals of cinematic history.
