Peter Cushing, with his impeccable acting skills and outstanding screen presence, remains one of the film industry’s most celebrated figures. Over the years, he graced the silver screen with various unforgettable roles that transcended typical genres. His commitment to the craft and innate ability to connect deeply with audiences made each of his performances memorable. This article navigates through the ten best films of his illustrious career, emphasizing the versatility and depth he brought to each character. From British vampire classics to science fiction, Cushing’s range is a testament to his unparalleled skill and dedication. Join us as we traverse the cinematic milestones that have cemented Cushing’s legacy as a true luminary in the world of film. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best Peter Cushing films of all time.
10. Twins of Evil – John Hough (1971)
Set in a small Central European town, “Twins of Evil” revolves around two orphaned identical twins, Maria and Frieda, who go to live with their puritanical uncle, Gustav Weil, played by Peter Cushing. Gustav leads a brotherhood that conducts witch hunts, burning supposed witches at the stake. While Maria remains innocent, Frieda, fascinated by Count Karnstein, gets lured into a world of black magic and vampirism. The atmospheric tension of the film constantly keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, and the town itself becomes a character, its narrow alleys and shadowy corners hiding secrets.
John Hough’s direction combined with Peter Cushing’s performance creates an intense atmospheric horror. The duality of good versus evil is explored through the twins’ characters, and the setting amplifies the eeriness of the plot. Cushing’s portrayal as the witch hunter is both commanding and captivating, serving as a testament to his ability to bring depth to horror roles. The soundtrack, with its haunting melodies, complements the film’s dark themes perfectly.
9. Tales from the Crypt – Freddie Francis (1972)
In “Tales from the Crypt,” five strangers find themselves in a crypt, confronted by a mysterious hooded figure known as the Crypt Keeper. Each person hears a chilling story related to their own behavior, with Peter Cushing playing the role of Arthur Grimsdyke, a kind-hearted garbage collector who faces cruelty from his neighbors. Grimsdyke’s tale is but one of the five horrifying segments in this anthology. The atmospheric crypt setting adds a layer of claustrophobia, intensifying the suspense of each unfolding narrative. The Crypt Keeper, with his eerie presence, ties all the stories together, hinting at the inescapable fate awaiting each visitor.
Freddie Francis directs this film, drawing the audience into each twist and turn of the segmented tales. Peter Cushing’s story stands out, showcasing his range as an actor by evoking empathy in a horror setting. The anthology format allows for a variety of stories, each offering a unique blend of horror and morality. In between the shocks and scares, subtle critiques on human behavior emerge, revealing deeper thematic layers within the film. Cushing’s contribution to this film solidifies it as a must-watch for fans of the anthology horror genre.
8. The Curse of Frankenstein – Terence Fisher (1957)
Victor Frankenstein, portrayed by Peter Cushing, is a brilliant scientist obsessed with the idea of creating life. In his quest, he constructs a creature from stolen body parts, leading to unforeseen and tragic consequences. As the creature begins to exhibit violent tendencies, Victor’s life spirals into chaos, with his ambitions becoming a looming threat to those around him. The underlying theme of man’s overreaching ambition and the moral boundaries of science come to the forefront, creating a compelling narrative tension. The creature, an embodiment of Victor’s unchecked desires, serves as a grim reminder of the cost of playing god.
Terence Fisher’s “The Curse of Frankenstein” marks the beginning of the successful collaboration between Hammer Films and Peter Cushing. Cushing brings a distinct charisma to the character of Victor Frankenstein, blending ambition with a touch of madness. The film, with its lush colors and intricate sets, reinvents Mary Shelley’s tale for a new audience. Its gothic undertones and rich cinematography breathe new life into the classic story, making it one of the best Peter Cushing films of all time.
7. The Hound of the Baskervilles – Terence Fisher (1959)
Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson, played by Peter Cushing and André Morell, respectively, are called to investigate the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville. Legends speak of a phantom hound, said to have cursed the Baskerville lineage. As the detective duo digs deeper, they find themselves amidst dark family secrets and the looming threat of the spectral hound on the moors. The atmosphere is thick with tension, making every shadow and distant howl a potential clue or danger. The enigmatic nature of the moor and the local folklore further complicate their investigation, adding layers to the unfolding mystery.
This adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous novel gains momentum under Terence Fisher’s direction. Peter Cushing embodies the role of Sherlock Holmes, bringing an intellectual vigor combined with a meticulous attention to detail. The dark, foggy moors provide a perfect setting for the mystery to unfold, with each revelation adding to the suspense. Morell’s Dr. Watson serves as a grounding presence, contrasting Holmes’s intensity and providing a balanced dynamic between the two. Cushing’s Holmes stands as one of the most memorable and striking interpretations of the iconic detective.
6. Time Without Pity – Joseph Losey (1957)
Alec Graham is sentenced to hang for the murder of his girlfriend, but his father, played by Michael Redgrave, believes in his innocence. With only 24 hours before the execution, he begins his desperate investigation. Peter Cushing takes on the role of Jeremy Clayton, one of the characters involved in the intricate web surrounding the crime. The atmosphere of urgency is palpable, with each discovery and setback adding to the viewer’s sense of desperation. The tight timeline forces characters to confront their values and decisions head-on, making for riveting confrontations.
Joseph Losey crafts a compelling drama where time is of the essence. Every tick of the clock amplifies the tension as the narrative unfolds. While not in the leading role, Cushing’s presence adds gravitas to the storyline, demonstrating his versatility beyond horror. His character, Jeremy Clayton, brings layers of complexity to the tale, challenging audiences to piece together his role in the wider mystery. The film’s fast-paced nature combined with strong performances makes it an unforgettable watch in Peter Cushing’s filmography.
5. Nineteen Eighty-Four – Rudolph Cartier (1954)
In Rudolph Cartier’s “Nineteen Eighty-Four,” viewers are introduced to a dystopian future governed by the omnipotent Party, led by Big Brother. The story centers on Winston Smith, an employee at the Ministry of Truth, where his job is to alter historical records to fit the Party’s propaganda. However, Winston harbors secret rebellious thoughts and begins an illicit love affair with Julia. As they challenge the Party’s oppressive rule, they face dire consequences.
Cartier’s adaptation of George Orwell’s classic novel presents a bleak and foreboding vision of a totalitarian society. The unsettling atmosphere, paired with Peter Cushing’s portrayal of Winston, captures the novel’s essence, drawing viewers into its harrowing narrative. The chilling representation of surveillance and thought control serves as a warning about unchecked power. The film stands out as a powerful portrayal of a dystopian future that resonates to this day, making it one of the best Peter Cushing films of all time.
4. Top Secret! – Jerry Zucker, Jim Abrahams (1984)
“Top Secret!” is a satirical comedy that follows the journey of American rock and roll singer Nick Rivers, who travels to East Germany. He becomes embroiled in a resistance movement against the oppressive government and attempts to rescue the imprisoned scientist Dr. Paul Flammond. Along the way, the film parodies various movie genres, combining slapstick, puns, and visual gags for comedic effect.
Zucker and Abrahams, known for their off-beat humor, ensure a roller coaster of laughter throughout the film. Peter Cushing’s cameo, filled with the film’s signature blend of absurdity, is a delightful addition. His appearance, although brief, showcases his ability to effortlessly transition from serious roles to comedic sketches. “Top Secret!” remains a cult classic, offering a zany escape into a world of nonsensical hilarity.
3. Cash on Demand – Quentin Lawrence (1961)
In “Cash on Demand,” the story unfolds in a small-town bank during the Christmas season. Peter Cushing portrays bank manager Harry Fordyce, a stern and meticulous man. The peace of his day is shattered when he meets Colonel Gore Hepburn, played by André Morell, who turns out to be a cunning robber. Using information about Fordyce’s family as leverage, Hepburn coerces him into cooperating with a heist.
Under Quentin Lawrence’s direction, the film thrives on the tension of the cat-and-mouse game between the two main characters. Cushing’s portrayal of the morally upright yet vulnerable bank manager is nothing short of brilliant. The confined setting of the bank intensifies the suspense, making each interaction between the characters crucial. “Cash on Demand” is a gripping heist drama that showcases the depth of human emotions when pushed to the edge.
2. Dracula – Terence Fisher (1958)
“Dracula”, a classic British vampire film, introduces us to the infamous Count Dracula, played by Christopher Lee, who terrorizes the inhabitants of a small European village. Peter Cushing takes on the iconic role of Professor Van Helsing, a vampire hunter determined to put an end to Dracula’s reign of terror. The dynamic between the hunter and the hunted intensifies as the story progresses, highlighting the timeless nature of their eternal conflict. As Van Helsing tracks the vampire, a game of survival ensues, pitting good against evil.
Terence Fisher’s take on the classic Bram Stoker tale is a masterclass in gothic horror. With Cushing’s commanding presence as Van Helsing, the film attains a dramatic intensity, making it a standout in the horror genre. Engaging character development, combined with skillful cinematography, sets a tone of suspense from beginning to end. The atmospheric sets and chilling score enhance the eerie ambiance, drawing viewers into Dracula’s dark world. “Dracula” is certainly one of the best Peter Cushing films ever, setting a benchmark for portrayals of the legendary vampire hunter for decades to come.
1. Star Wars – George Lucas (1977)
In “Star Wars,” often referred to as “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” the galaxy is under the iron grip of the tyrannical Galactic Empire. The film follows Luke Skywalker, a young farm boy, as he is thrust into a galaxy-spanning adventure after receiving a distress message from Princess Leia. Along the way, he meets various characters, including the menacing Grand Moff Tarkin, played by Peter Cushing, who is determined to crush the Rebel Alliance that opposes the Empire’s rule. Cushing’s portrayal brings an aura of chilling bureaucracy to the Empire’s rule, illustrating the cold efficiency of its leadership. His interactions with other characters, especially Darth Vader, showcase the political dynamics at play within the Empire’s hierarchy.
George Lucas’s iconic space opera is a cultural phenomenon, blending elements of fantasy, sci-fi, and adventure. Peter Cushing’s role as Grand Moff Tarkin is a testament to his ability to embody a character with sheer authority and malevolence. His performance stands out, not just for its chilling intensity but for its nuanced portrayal of a man dedicated to his cause. The film’s groundbreaking visual effects and epic narrative have cemented its place in cinematic history. Cushing’s contribution, albeit as an antagonist, adds a layer of depth to the diverse cast, making “Star Wars” a timeless masterpiece.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best Peter Cushing films of all time:
- Twins of Evil – John Hough (1971)
- Tales from the Crypt – Freddie Francis (1972)
- The Curse of Frankenstein – Terence Fisher (1957)
- The Hound of the Baskervilles – Terence Fisher (1959)
- Time Without Pity – Joseph Losey (1957)
- Nineteen Eighty-Four – Rudolph Cartier (1954)
- Top Secret! – Jerry Zucker, Jim Abrahams (1984)
- Cash on Demand – Quentin Lawrence (1961)
- Dracula – Terence Fisher (1958)
- Star Wars – George Lucas (1977)
