After decades in the shadows, the legendary Amicus Productions is set for a grand revival thanks to the team at Hex Studios. Their upcoming film, In the Grip of Terror, seeks to honour the classic studio’s legacy, while forging a new chapter in British horror.
Drawing inspiration from iconic films like Dr. Terror’s House of Horrors (1965), Tales from the Crypt (1972), and Asylum (1972), the new portmanteau feature will spotlight four tales rooted in the works of revered authors such as H.P. Lovecraft, Ambrose Bierce, and E.F Benson. With a central theme of medical macabre, the film promises to be a chilling experience.
While the full cast list is under wraps, it will feature UK horror stalwarts like Laurence R. Harvey (Human Centipede II) and emerging stars Megan Tremethick (Ghost Crew) Jonathan Hansler (The Devil’s Machine) and Michael Daviot (Revenge of Innsmouth).
“When I was younger, I’d watch Amicus’s classic horror films; hypnotised by their gothic allure, I’d feel a nostalgia, even though they were made long before me,” says Megan. “I never could have dreamt that one day I’d be able to announce that I’ll be in one!”
“[It’s] great news for horror fans,” commented Jonathan Hansler.
Guiding the ambitious resurrection is the new president of Amicus Productions, Lawrie Brewster, known for The Unkindness of Ravens (2016), The Devil’s Machine (2019), and Ghost Crew (2022). Alongside him is his business partner, writer/producer Sarah Daly. Their efforts come after extensive dialogues and collaboration with the family of Amicus founder Milton Subotsky, who have wholeheartedly endorsed this venture.
But the aspirations of Brewster and team stretch beyond a single film. They are calling upon classic horror aficionados to be part of this cinematic rebirth. A crowdfunding campaign, set to kick off in mid-September, will facilitate the initial stages of the project, driving set construction, original practical effects creation, and talent acquisition. Fans can get a head start by registering for updates on the Amicus Pre-Launch Campaign Page.
“Our aim is to re-establish Amicus Productions as a beacon of independent British horror,” enthuses Brewster. “We’re concocting a film that captures the essence and panache that rendered the studio iconic. By emphasising atmospheric storytelling, tangible effects, and a genuine respect for the genre, our vision is to teleport audiences back to British horror’s golden epoch.
“This venture transcends mere studio revival,” he continues. “It’s a renaissance of passion, tribute to a rich legacy, and a testament to indie cinema’s prowess.”
Brewster also delved into the deep-rooted involvement of the Subotsky family in the project.
“The title In the Grip of Terror was generously shared with me by Sergei Subotsky, derived from a list of potential titles his late father, Milton Subotsky, had curated decades ago. It feels profoundly fitting that we’re expanding upon the imaginative groundwork set by such a visionary. What’s even more fascinating is that three of the four stories we’re adapting were suggested by Milton’s widow and Sergei’s mother, Dr. Fiona Subotsky.'”
“This will be our most ambitious and challenging mission yet, and we’re gonna need all the help we can get to do Amicus the justice it truly deserves,” notes Megan Tremethick.
Horror fans – over to you…
• For continuous updates, follow Hex Studios on @LawrieBrewster on Twitter or at the British Horror Studio Facebook Group
• Sign up for notification of launch of the Kickstarter for In the Grip of Terror here
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The founder of downthetubes, which he established in 1998. John works as a comics and magazine editor, writer, and on promotional work for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. He is currently editor of Star Trek Explorer, published by Titan – his third tour of duty on the title originally titled Star Trek Magazine.
Working in British comics publishing since the 1980s, his credits include editor of titles such as Doctor Who Magazine, Babylon 5 Magazine, and more. He also edited the comics anthology STRIP Magazine and edited several audio comics for ROK Comics. He has also edited several comic collections, including volumes of “Charley’s War” and “Dan Dare”.
He’s the writer of “Pilgrim: Secrets and Lies” for B7 Comics; “Crucible”, a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz; and “Death Duty” and “Skow Dogs” with Dave Hailwood.
Categories: Crowd Funding Projects, downthetubes News, Film, Other Worlds
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