Rasputin: The Mad Monk/The Reptile (1966) in the PNW

Details: Written by: Mortado; Category: The 1960s in Northwest Cinemas

This is a collection of media from the initial runs of "Rasputin: The Mad Monk" and "The Reptile" (1966) in the Pacific Northwest.

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Rasputin: The Mad Monk (1966)
"Rasputin: The Mad Monk" is a gripping historical drama directed by Don Sharp. It features Christopher Lee in one of his most memorable roles. The film delves into the turbulent life of Grigori Rasputin, a controversial and enigmatic figure who wielded significant influence over the Russian imperial family in the early 20th century.

The story begins with Rasputin arriving in St. Petersburg, where his charismatic personality and rumored mystical powers quickly attract attention. As he navigates the Russian court's intricate and often dangerous political landscape, Rasputin's influence grows, especially over Tsarina Alexandra. His ability to seemingly heal the Tsarevich, who suffers from hemophilia, further cements his position within the royal circle.

Christopher Lee's portrayal of Rasputin captures the character's complexity—his unyielding ambition, hypnotic charm, and underlying menace. The film explores his manipulation of those around him, his hedonistic lifestyle, and the growing animosity of the nobility and commoners who view him as a corrupting force.

Director: Don Sharp
Writer: Anthony Hinds
Stars: Christopher Lee, Barbara Shelley, Richard Pasco
Buy "Rasputin: The Mad Monk" (1966) bluray on Amazon (SPONSORED)
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The Reptile (1966)
"The Reptile" is a chilling horror film directed by John Gilling that delves into the eerie happenings in a small Cornish village. The story begins with the mysterious death of Charles Spalding, who succumbs to a horrifying, unknown disease. His brother, Harry, inherits his estate and moves to the village with his wife, Valerie, to investigate Charles's death.

As they settle in, Harry and Valerie notice the villagers' strange behavior and their reluctance to discuss the mysterious deaths plaguing the area. Their curiosity leads them to Dr. Franklyn, a reclusive and somewhat sinister figure, and his daughter, Anna, who seems to be hiding a dark secret.

The narrative takes a suspenseful turn as Harry and Valerie uncover the truth about a curse that turns its victim into a snake-like creature. As they dig deeper, they come face-to-face with the terrifying reality behind the curse and the tragic history that haunts Dr. Franklyn's family.

Director: John Gilling
Writer: Anthony Hinds
Stars: Noel Willman, Jennifer Daniel, Ray Barrett
Buy "The Reptile" (1966) bluray on Amazon (SPONSORED)
Buy "The Reptile" (1966) DVD on Amazon (SPONSORED)

August 10, 1966 ad (Portland)