Hammer: Heroes, Legends and Monsters premieres on Sky Arts this Halloween

Hammer, one of the UK’s most iconic film studios, is the subject of a new documentary, which will air October 31 on Sky Arts. Hammer: Heroes, Legends and Monsters promises to delve into the rich history and lasting impact of Hammer Films, one of the most enduring names in horror and fantasy.

Celebrating the 90th anniversary of the studio, and narrated by Charles Dance OBE, the special takes audiences behind the scenes with the creative figures who defined Hammer’s unique vision, and it features contributions from legendary filmmakers such as Tim Burton, John Carpenter, Joe Dante, and John Logan, alongside Hammer’s own stars and dedicated experts.

The special takes audiences behind the scenes with the creative figures who defined Hammer’s unique vision…

The legacy of Hammer Films: a unique horror legacy

Founded in London, Hammer Films rose to fame in the 1950s and 1960s with its groundbreaking approach to gothic horror, blending dramatic visuals and haunting atmospheres that made movies like Dracula and The Curse of Frankenstein instant classics. 

Hammer not only revitalised horror cinema but created a distinctive style and mood that influenced a generation of filmmakers. With stars such as Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee, Hammer’s films presented complex villains and tragic antiheroes whose influence can be seen in modern horror to this day.

“Hammer Films has always represented a unique family of talent, both on screen and off,” says John Gore, CEO and Chairman of Hammer Films. “Our mission today is to honour that legacy while looking to the future with new stories and cutting-edge restorations. This documentary celebrates the visionaries who made Hammer what it was and the passionate fans who keep the brand alive.”

Directed and produced by Benjamin Field, of Deep Fusion Films, the docu tracks the studio’s evolution, beginning with its humble origins on Regent Street and its early suspense films, before its rise to cult status. Fans are promised unprecedented insights into the lives and works of Hammer’s actors, directors, and behind-the-scenes artists, including the studio’s legendary double act Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee. 

Field shares his experience in uncovering Hammer’s rich history, stating, “It’s been an honour to explore such a complex story during Hammer’s 90th year. The tales I’ve uncovered are richer than I ever imagined, and I hope audiences will gain a fresh perspective on Hammer’s entire catalogue and appreciate the pioneering work the studio achieved.”

As a poignant finale, the documentary pays homage to Hammer royalty with a special tribute to Peter Cushing, a moment set to resonate with long-time fans and newcomers alike. “After seven decades of resurrecting Dracula, it feels fitting to have created the final sequence with the legendary Peter Cushing,” Field says.

Hammer’s legacy continues

The premiere of Hammer: Heroes, Legends and Monsters coincides with Hammer’s 90th-anniversary celebrations on November 9, further marked by the upcoming release of a 4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray collector’s edition of Captain Kronos: Vampire Hunter, meticulously restored from the original negatives.

Available for pre-order starting October 31, this limited-edition 5-disc set signals the beginning of Hammer’s restoration program, which will bring its classic horror films back to life for modern audiences.