Cast
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Mark Stevens
as Dr. Frank Overton
Marianne Koch
as Dr. Helen Wieland
Wolfgang Lukschy
as Inspector Prenton
Joachim Hansen
as Tony Stein
Delphi Lawrence
as Joan Overton
Walter Rilla
as Sir Keith
Helmut Weiss
as Chairman
Albert Bessler
as Martin
John Longden
as Prof. Hubbard
Sigurd Lohde
as Dr. Karl Merkheimer
Wolfgang Gunther
as Sgt. Grun
Crew
Director
- Bernard Knowles
Writer
- Evelyn Frazer
Producer
- Artur Brauner
- Ronald Rietti
Reviews
talisencrw
Yes, I'm probably giving it way too many stars, but I really have a proclivity both for British films of the 60's and sci-fi thrillers about cryogenics and suspended animation. I didn't pay too much for this (it was part of my now-infamous Mill Creek 50-pack called 'Nightmare Worlds'), it wasn't very long (around 70 minutes in my cut), had jazzy, African and crooning music that I found highly enjoyable, had two gorgeous actresses at its core and a bizarre plot (which intercut plotlines of becoming the first to safely freeze and re-animate a human being, with an accidental shooting death that the scientist/first human subject is the main suspect of), and though it was rather predictable, I have to admit I thoroughly enjoyed it, and would easily recommend it to anyone that likes B-movies from the 60's. You could do a heck of a lot worse.
Somewhat relatedly, I would to see any other films that either Marianne Koch or Delphi Lawrence were in. I loved both of them dearly in this film.
Apr 15, 2016
CinemaSerf
This has quite a quirky premiss as scientist "Overton" (Mark Stevens) works on a project to develop elementary cryogenics. They've tried tests on monkeys, but now it needs that next step - and he volunteers to be immersed in cooling gases and to take a very long nap! Now is he just doing his bit for progress or has he a more malevolent motive? You see, his wife (Delphi Lawrence) has been found murdered and "Insp. Prenton" (Wolfgang Lukschy) wonders if this might not be a rather too perfect alibi. Just what is the nature of the relationship between our chilled-out friend and his colleague "Dr. Wieland" (Marianne Koch)? Indeed, as the police investigate further it seems that her husband isn't their only suspect - so who did the deed? Though the refrigeration concept is quite fun, the execution here is mediocre and neither the acting nor the script really do much to enliven the film from it's (and our) similarly frigid slumbers nor does the over-used and repetitive jazzy-style soundtrack. It can't have had much budget and that's reflected in the limited nature of the production and by the end of this thankfully short-ish feature I was a bit weary of the ropey accents as it descended into a rather unremarkable police melodrama. More slush than blizzard, sorry.
Nov 19, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a science fiction narrative, Frozen Alive explores potential technological and societal futures, raising important questions about humanity's place in the universe and our evolutionary trajectory. The film stands apart from other sci-fi works by presenting a vision that is both thought-provoking and visually distinctive.
Director Bernard Knowles brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1964, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Frozen Alive took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 81 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 3 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1964, when this film was released:
- Social and cultural revolution was transforming Western societies.
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Frozen Alive shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Aliens, which focuses more on action than character development, Frozen Alive subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Diamonds Are Forever and The Spy Who Loved Me explore similar territory, Frozen Alive stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 1, 1964
- Runtime: 1h 21m
Where to Watch
