The Stranglers of Bombay (1959), dir. Terrence Fisher, Hammer Film Productions
Not exactly a horror film, but Hammer and Fisher? Why not?
The 1830s and England has a firm grip on India. Captain Lewis (Guy Rolfe) would argue that point, however, as some 2000 natives have up and vanished. He brings his fears to his superior, Colonel Henderson (Andrew Cruickshank), who ignores him. Who cares about some missing natives when caravans have been attacked! The East India Company wants results!
Naturally a special investigator must be appointed. Lewis assumes it will be him, but the job goes to the newly arrived Captain Connaught-Smith (Allan Cuthbertson). Henderson's hands are tied, after all, Connaught-Smith is the son of an old friend you know.
Lewis has evidence that the missing natives are being murdered by the Thugee cult, who may have agents in the cities, perhaps even in people's homes!
To suggest one look their servants in the eye is most ungentlemanly, argues Connaught-Smith, and besides, he thinks he can crack the whole case safely sitting in HQ and letting his 'lessers' work. Even when Lewis gets kidnapped by the cult and saved at the last minute, Connaught-Smith refuses to believe the Thugee are active. At this point Lewis decides he could do more outside the system and quits.
He's right, but now what can one man do against a cult, especially since they now know he's on to them?
Not terrible; I mean, the Thugee's haven't exactly had best the representation in most media, but they are more accurate here then in Temple of Doom. The performances are fine, Rolfe especially. Cushing and Lee might have been better, but overall, not as racist as it could have been.
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