Hammer Classic ‘The Curse of Frankenstein’ Restored for UK Premiere

Hammer Films is set to celebrate its milestone 90th anniversary with the world premiere of a new 4K restoration of The Curse of Frankenstein, the 1957 classic that cemented the studio as a global force in horror. The premiere takes place on 1 October at Vue Cinema London – West End, the very site that hosted the film’s original debut almost seven decades ago.

The screening will mark the first time audiences have been able to experience The Curse of Frankenstein in 4K on the big screen, ahead of its international release as a limited collector’s edition on UHD and Blu-ray. Hammer has collaborated with The Warner Archive Collection and Silver Salt Restoration to restore Terence Fisher’s landmark film with unprecedented clarity, alongside a new 5.1 surround sound mix.

The Curse of Frankenstein was Hammer’s first colour horror film and proved transformative for the company’s future, introducing audiences to Peter Cushing’s tormented Victor Frankenstein and Christopher Lee’s menacing Creature. Its bold visual style and visceral approach redefined gothic horror for a post-war audience and set the stage for a wave of Hammer productions throughout the 1960s and 70s.

John Gore, CEO of Hammer Films, described the 4K premiere as a tribute to the film that “made Hammer a global name and first paired the legendary duo of Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee.” Vue Cinemas founder Tim Richards added that returning the film to its original West End site connects “past and present in a way no other location could.”

The restoration was overseen by Silver Salt Restoration, whose managing director Mark Bonnici said the project honoured “the artistry of the original filmmakers by restoring this classic as it was meant to be seen – in stunning clarity and colour.”

The premiere event will feature an immersive reception, including photo opportunities, themed activities, and a Q&A with special guests, among them Melvyn Hayes, who played the young Victor Frankenstein in the original film. For those unable to attend the London launch, nationwide screenings begin 2 October.

The Curse of Frankenstein remains a cornerstone of Hammer’s catalogue, standing alongside Dracula (1958), The Mummy (1959) and later releases such as The Woman in Black (2012) and Let Me In (2010). This new restoration highlights Hammer’s dual focus on developing original horror for modern audiences while safeguarding the legacy of its most celebrated titles.

The restored film will be available in cinemas from 2 October, followed by its worldwide UHD and Blu-ray release later in the month.

The Curse of Frankenstein trailer