The Reptile (1966)

British film studios have never had the affluence of their US counterparts, so a bit of cost cutting was always necessary to keep things moving along. In fact, it wasn't uncommon for movies to use the same set for more than one movie - as was the case with Hammer's The Reptile.

This film doubled up with the previously-reviewed Plague Of The Zombies, both using an unnamed Cornish village in the Victorian era. And the plot isn't a million miles away either - mysterious deaths, fearful villagers and a suspicious-looking bloke in a big house.

However, The Reptile has a much stronger storyline - and well-maintained suspense. The movie opens with the death of Charles Spalding from a mysterious "black death" - though his death certificate reads "heart failure". His brother Harry and his wife (Valerie) inherit Harry's home and head off to the village.

When they get there, they're shunned by most of the village except pub landlord Tom, who helps Charles to discover the truth - which all points to the home of strange neighbour Dr Franklyn, his younger daughter Anna and "The Malay". As you can see from the image, special effects weren't cutting-edge, but certainly effective. The plot keeps your interest for the 86 minutes and as ever, there's a fine rousing finale. Oh yes, and a mad sitar segment too.

A lost gem from the days before Hammer went all heaving bosoms and vampires - and well worth keeping an eye out for in the TV listings.

Available as part of the Ultimate Hammer DVD boxset. Find out more about it at Amazon.co.uk