The Manster
The Manster

Movie spotlight

The Manster

1959
Movie
73 min
English

An American journalist stationed in Japan is given a mysterious injection by a mad scientist, turning him into a murderous, two-headed monster.

Insights

IMDb4.8/10
Director: George P. Breakston, Ken K. NakajimaGenres: Horror, Sci-Fi

Plot Summary

An American freelance reporter, Larry, is investigating the disappearance of scientists in Japan. He stumbles upon a mad scientist, Dr. Ishida, who is experimenting with a formula that can transform humans into amphibious creatures. Larry becomes Ishida's latest test subject after being injected with the formula. He begins to transform into a monstrous, two-headed amphibian, with one head remaining human and the other evolving into a grotesque, predatory creature.

Critical Reception

The Manster is a cult classic of low-budget 1950s sci-fi horror, often cited for its unique premise and memorable monster design. While it received a mixed reception upon release due to its B-movie sensibilities and pacing, it has gained a following over the years among genre enthusiasts for its campy charm and distinctive special effects. Critics at the time often pointed out its flaws, but modern audiences tend to appreciate its earnestness and inventiveness within its limited budget.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its unique two-headed monster concept.

  • Criticized for its slow pacing and low-budget effects.

  • Appreciated for its campy B-movie appeal by genre fans.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this older film, but those available often highlight the film's cult status and memorable, albeit schlocky, monster effects.

Fun Fact

The film was shot in Japan and features a blend of American and Japanese cast and crew, reflecting the growing international influence in filmmaking during the late 1950s.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
talisencrw

talisencrw

This was an excellent film and it really surprised me that it was included in my cheapo Mill Creek 50-pack, 'Nightmare Worlds'. The pair that played the married couple in the film were actually married in real life, and the actor who played...