Poor attempt by Hammer to create their version of Frankenstein, featuring the usually reliable Bates offering a rather irritating performance as the scientist who goes beyond the call of science.

The film shatters, with awkward horror pitted against rather bland sheepishness. But it was good fun while it lasted. Hammer almost had something special.

Detractors have criticized the picture for what’s perceived as a campy approach, but I’ve always viewed the humor as more curdled than campy.

Dennis' Price's grave robber is engaging.