Second Sight Films, out now

A team of British archaeologists discover the untouched tomb of Princess Ananka but accidentally bring the mummified body of her high priest back to life. 

After their success with resurrecting Frankenstein and Dracula it was inevitable that Hammer would add the Mummy to their roster, reuniting Peter Cushing, Christopher Lee, director Terence Fisher, writer Jimmy Sangster and composer James Bernard.

The story is familiar, but watching it in colour adds a new dimension to the oft-told tale. As this was released in 1959, it’s a family-friendly watch compared to Hammer’s later gory output, and it’s a quality production that exceeds its budget. Lee lurches as the bandaged Kharis, Cushing is dashing as archaeologist John Banning, and the 86 minutes fly by like a comfort tonic.

Second Sight’s limited edition presents HD cuts in both original UK theatrical aspect ratio 1.66:1 and alternative full frame1.37:1. There’s an enthusiastic new audio commentary by film academic Kelly Robinson, archive audio commentary by Marcus Hearn and Jonathan Rigby, as well as an appreciation of the movie by David Huckvale, features on the music, Bray Studios and the Hammer Rep Company. The package comes in a rigid slipcase with new artwork by Graham Humphreys and includes a soft cover book with writing and four art cards.

Verdict: A Hammer classic, polished and pimped up with impressive extras. 9/10

Nick Joy

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