This slightly lesser-known Jack Arnold sci-fi/horror film is really a treat to watch, again and again. Arthur Franz plays a college professor whose blood is accidentally contaminated by the blood of a coelacanth. The accident periodically transforms Franz into a primitive, rampaging beast, who simply wants to kill...and kill. The coelacanth also has interesting effects on an ordinary dragonfly and a formerly docile German Shepherd.
Good and very original story, tons of action, and some good acting really lift this movie. The always under-appreciated Franz is very good, with fine support from student Troy Donahue and skeptical doctor Whit Bissell. The monster suit and makeup are a little shaky, but the film really benefits from Arnold's sure direction. Pretty brutal hatchet attack toward the end, though.
Best exchange: Professor (Franz): "Jimmy, did you know your dog was a throwback?" Jimmy (Donahue): "Throwback? He's a German Shepherd!"
Good and very original story, tons of action, and some good acting really lift this movie. The always under-appreciated Franz is very good, with fine support from student Troy Donahue and skeptical doctor Whit Bissell. The monster suit and makeup are a little shaky, but the film really benefits from Arnold's sure direction. Pretty brutal hatchet attack toward the end, though.
Best exchange: Professor (Franz): "Jimmy, did you know your dog was a throwback?" Jimmy (Donahue): "Throwback? He's a German Shepherd!"