Hammer is synonymous with horror after redefining the genre in 1958 with The Curse of Frankenstein and Horror of Dracula the following year, making Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee global superstars in the process.  Hammer introduced vivid color, sexuality, graphic violence, and genuine scares to these classic gothic tales, ushering in an era of great success and popularity that would extend into the 1970s. Lee’s portrayal of Dracula is considered by many critics and fans to be the version of the character to compare all others to, introducing elements forever associated with the character, including fangs, bloodshot eyes, the black cape with red lining, and carnal ferocity. 

Hammer’s hits would continue with The Mummy, Dracula: Prince of Darkness, The Reptile, The Devil Rides Out, and Twins of Evil and introduced the world to its first ‘scream queen’ in Ingrid Pitt with The Countess Dracula.

By the end of the 1970s Hammer would remain in a state of hibernation until returning in grand style with 2010’s modern vampire tale Let Me In and 2012’s gothic horror The Woman In Black.