The Flesh and the Fiends (1959)

- written January 2006

Summary: It is 1828 and local surgeon/professor Dr. Knox relies on grave-robbers to supply him with fresh bodies for his anatomy lectures. Irish immigrants Burke and Hare initially can’t believe that hadn’t previously struck upon this idea to earn money before. But once they start finding bodies…they realize it’s a “cash cow” and they soon start finding alternative ways to find bodies…including murder.           Overall: Based on the true story of their exploits, this film is very underrated. I found the acting to be superb and frankly enjoyed my movie experience. And Donald Pleasance as “Hare” was just simply outstanding. Cushing also was at his best as Dr. Knox. Go find this movie and enjoy it. Just great performances all around. Now, anyone watching this film in the U.S. and U.K. probably finds the “clothed” version. Seems a few shots of topless women were included in a “Continental Europe” edition. Nothing too outrageous but still... And as you watch this film, you can sorta tell where the scenes were. But overall, not even lack of nudity can dull one’s enjoyment of this film.           Comparison: The Body Snatcher meets Phantasm

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