A few thoughts: When talking about a movie like this, it's virtually impossible to even attempt separating it from the film's main star, Vincent Price. And why would you want to? Not only was the screenplay clearly tailored specifically for him, but as one of the greatest horror film stars of all time, he would be hard to ignore either way. A comedic and dramatic film, centered around a niche actor known for his hammy and overwrought performances, who decides in the twilight of his years to take revenge on the critics who so long denied him his precious accolades. Like I said before, this film was clearly built around him. And what it also does is provide him ample opportunities for costume changes and sinister character moments, allowing him to display all the range he ever needed. I see it as a giant middle finger to snobby film critics everywhere, and I love it. It's big, dramatic, tons of fun, and gives an older Vincent Price some career-best material to work with. Sometimes all an actor needs is to be himself.
Any fan of Vincent Price should have this right at the top of their list of priorities. It may not be great for everyone, but it's a wonderful experience for his devotees.
My grade: B+
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