Founded in 1966, the Gothique Film Society specialises in double bills ‘for the connoisseur of the macabre’.

Introduced by Kim Newman

We are delighted that acclaimed author, critic and broadcaster Kim Newman, who ‘cut his teeth’ at the Gothique Film Society, will be joining us to introduce a ‘first’ for the society: an evening of Japanese Horror!

Mansion of the Ghost Cat is a typical Japanese spook story (of the bakeneko or ‘ghost cat’ sub-genre) about a villain, played in full-blooded ‘Tod Slaughter’ mode, who goes through life committing petty and major crimes, all the way from cheating at games to murder and rape, and is justifiably haunted by a spectral avenger.  

In typical Japanese style, there’s a lot more going on – and, yes, a cat does, indeed, play a significant role.

The Lady Vampire was the first Western-style vampire film from Japan. It’s a wild, busy film which isn’t content to create its own homegrown take on the Dracula-type vampire but throws in elements of the Wolf Man/Jekyll & Hyde, the Mummy and even She to create a catch-all ‘Universal’ monster.

The madcap scenario mixes the climax of Hammer’s Dracula with something like a 1940s serial as multiple perils are encountered in corridors, minions are tussled with and the swashbuckling vampire (who wields a mean candelabra!) tosses vampire-hunters around like a superman! It might not make much sense, but it delivers non-stop thrills!

We hope you enjoy this glimpse into a very different culture and sensibility.

Doors open at 18.00 for a 19.00 start.

Refreshments will be available in the licensed cafe/bar.

TICKETS & PRICING

Everyone welcome: Individual tickets at £8.00 can be purchased on the door or via TicketLab.

Alternatively, Gothique Film Society membership subscriptions are available. Each season comprises six shows, from October to March. The subscription for all six shows is £30.00, but discounted membership is available for in-season joiners. For further enquiries about membership, contact David Simpson david.simpson399@btinternet.com or come along and join up on the door.