The Cremator Details

A prime example of Czech Gothic, this is not only a chilling study of psychological collapse, but also a disturbing insight into the seductive power of totalitarianism. As the Nazi-era undertaker who becomes convinced that he can save humanity by fire, Rudolf Hrusinsky gives a performance that irresistibly recalls Peter Lorre at his most pathetically unhinged. His distorted expressions are emphasised by Juraj Herz's insistent use of close-ups, notably during the scenes at the fairground waxworks and in the pristine bathroom, where he tries to lure his wife, Vlasta Chramostova, into a noose. Rarely had evil seemed so hideously self-righteous.

A promising idea for a black comedy about a mild-mannered family man who runs a crematorium, this works well enough for... read more on Time Out