Quatermass 2 (1957): A Classic Sci-Fi Horror Review

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Quatermass 2 (1957) is a black-and-white science fiction horror film. It is directed and co-written by Val Guest, together with Nigel Kneale. The movie is based on the 1955 TV serial Quatermass II by Nigel Kneale. Furthermore, Quatermass 2 is the sequel to The Quatermass Xperiment (1955).

A Complex Sci-Fi Plot

Professor Bernard Quatermass and his team are studying a couple of mysterious meteorites that have landed in a place called Winnerden Flats. Quatermass is devastated by the government’s refusal to fund his new Moon project.

When he and his assistant, Marsh, go to Winnerden Flats, they encounter something strange. At first, access is restricted, but by proceeding, they see a large construction. Surprisingly, this facility is based on his own Moon project designs!

Moreover, many meteorites are seen on the ground. One of them cracks, and a gas is emitted, leaving Marsh with a visible scar on his skin. Immediately, security guards arrest him, with Quatermass desperately trying to figure out what is going on. Inspector Lomax, from the previous film, helps him solve the mystery. Vincent Broadhead, a Member of Parliament, is also suspicious about Winnerden Flats and joins their investigation.

Quatermass 2 deviates from the previous film, The Quatermass Xperiment (1955). The budget this time was considerably higher, and the storyline is more complicated. In the previous movie, there was one villain, while in Quatermass 2, the threat is bigger and the damage done is more extensive. Also, The Quatermass Xperiment (1955) was more horror-oriented, while this film leans more towards scientific conspiracy. Still, both movies were released during the Cold War. For Quatermass 2, scientific conspiracy is a means through which the worries about government secrecy and invasion were expressed.

The film was very bewildering to follow at times, and I believe that when you choose simplicity, you never lose. I liked the setting, though! Winnerden Flats, the hidden industrial plant, and the meteorites created multiple levels of a mystery I was interested in unraveling. Also, Quatermass’ active participation in the investigation and his cooperation with the other two characters let the movie take its course more naturally.

Characters and Performances

Professor Bernard Quatermass is the leader of a group of scientists. He is impatient and refuses to give up when the government rejects funding his Moon project for “other more important priorities.” He perseveres, especially when he realizes that something is off with Winnerden Flats, and shows courage and bravery despite the dangers. Generally, it was good seeing his character participate more actively in the plot in comparison to the previous movie.

Inspector Lomax is the representative of law, with all the pros and cons accompanying it. He collaborates well with Quatermass, since he is calmer and more logical. At first, he is doubtful, but as soon as he realizes the extent of the new threat, he offers his full support.

Vincent Broadhead is an acquaintance of Inspector Lomax and a representative of parliament. He is already convinced that something is wrong with Winnerden Flats. This is the reason why Lomax brings Quatermass into contact with him, and they were indeed a very good duo.

Memorable Performances

Brian Donlevy’s performance as Quatermass was passionate. It was positive that his role is more active in the sequel, placing Donlevy in the spotlight.

John Longden was amazing as Inspector Lomax. There was a change in the casting for the role, since Jack Warner, who originally played Lomax in *The Quatermass Xperiment*, was not available.

Tom Chatto was also very convincing playing Vincent Broadhead. In addition to that, I liked his chemistry with Donlevy in the first part of the film when they were investigating together.

Direction and Cinematography

Val Guest’s direction gives off a sense of authenticity, since the location of Winnerden Flats and the industrial area are real. The atmosphere is tense and unsettling. Concerning the cinematography by Gerald Gibbs and Len Harris, there is a combination of bright outdoor scenes of the industrial plant with dark scenes of the inside, adding to this imminent feeling.

The Ending

The ending was totally rewarding after all this chaos, but the real question is, “How final can it be?”

Quatermass 2 was originally released in the United States in September 1957.

Details

• Rating Certificate: Approved
• Studios & Distributors: Hammer Films
• Country: United Kingdom
• Language: English
• Run Time: 85 Mins.
• Aspect Ratio: 1.75:1
• Director: Val Guest
• Written By: Nigel Kneale | Val Guest
• Original Release Date: September 1957 (United States)