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In the early 1900s, British anthropologist Professor Saxon is transporting a frozen specimen from China to Moscow on the Trans-Siberian Express. But what’s thought to be the missing link in human evolution is actually an alien parasite.

I have fond memories of watching this movie in the early 1980s as a late night horror treat on BBC2. It was my first exposure to European horror – rich primary colours showcasing the abundant blood; a swirling, orchestral soundtrack; and the pairing of Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing. Directed by Spanish filmmaker Eugenio (Gene) Martin, this 1972 production still entertains thanks to its pedigree Brit horror leads, some innovative production design (including some well-realised model trains) and sheer nonsense.

Across its 84 minutes Horror Express shifts from ‘monster on the loose’ to slasher to whodunnit to sci-fi to zombie movie. And when Telly Savalas turns up in the final act as a Cossack he’s in danger of derailing (literally) the whole enterprise with his OTT performance, but it actually just proves to be more grist for the mill. Blood runs from milk-white eyes, skulls are opened to reveal plundered brains and soldiers are imposed on blades – it’s bracing stuff.

The new 2K restoration from original film elements is a revelation, allowing that saturated 70s film stock to bask in its gaudy glory, and we’re treated to an enthusiastic audio commentary from horror experts Stephen Jones and Kim Newman. Film-maker Steve Habernan gives an 8-minute appreciation of the movie, while Murder on the Trans-Siberian Express is an archival interview with director Eugenio Martin, providing some additional behind-the-scenes insight on the production. Notes from the Blacklist features producer Bernard Gordon on working in Hollywood during the McCarthy Era and Telly and Me is an interview with composer John Cacavas.

Verdict: It’s murder on the Trans-Siberian Express, but whodunnit? (Whatdunnit?)This period version of The Thing is a great example of ambitious, gory and gaudy Euro-horror of the early 70s and a whole lot of fun – and anything featuring Cushing and Lee has to be worth your time. 8/10

Nick Joy

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