Hammer: Heroes, Legends and Monsters is a new Sky Original feature documentary
commissioned to celebrate Hammer Films’ 90th anniversary in November 2024.
Ordered by Sky head of co-production Jack Oliver and produced in association with Hammer
Films, the documentary will TX in November 2024, timed to coincide with the month that the
legendary UK film production company was founded by comedian and businessman William
Hinds in November 1934. The film is executive produced by Hammer Films CEO, John Gore
with all international rights outside of the UK to be managed by Hammer Films.
The 90-minute documentary, helmed by Deep Fusion’s award-winning co-founder Benjamin
Field, will track Hammer Films’ progression from a back office in London’s Regent Street to
its iconic status in the horror-film universe. Known for his innovative storytelling and dynamic
visual style, Field will revisit the people — both in front of the camera and behind it — who
not only made Hammer a byword for horror, but who also created some of the most
influential films in cinematic history.
In addition to pioneering the gothic horror genre, Hammer Films also made global stars out
of its top talent, notably Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing. Included in the documentary will
be a host of key contributors, many interviewed for the first time, as well as unseen archive
footage and interviews with notable directors including Tim Burton, John Carpenter & Joe
Dante.
Filming on Heroes, Legends and Monsters has started this month in three separate locations
and sets based on cult classics such as The Quatermass Xperiment (1955), Dracula (1958)
and The Curse of Frankenstein (1957).
Phil Edgar-Jones, director of Sky Arts, said: “At Sky Arts we’re all about bringing legends to
the screen, and we couldn’t be happier to be sharing the thrills and chills of Hammer’s
trailblazing work in gothic horror with our audiences. Prepare for demons, vampires,
mummies and perhaps the odd abominable snowman too…”
Benjamin Field, co-founder of Deep Fusion Films, said: “Hammer Films has a rich and
storied history that has captivated audiences for decades. Heroes, Legends and Monsters
aims to honour and celebrate that legacy and provide an insightful, entertaining experience
for both long-time fans of horror, as well as new converts to the genre. And we couldn’t hope
for better partners on this journey into the bloody heart of horror than Sky and Hammer
Films.”
Jonathan Lack, COO of Hammer Films, continues: “As we approach our 90th anniversary,
we reflect on Hammer Films’ unparalleled contribution to the horror genre. Heroes, Legends
and Monsters is a testament to our enduring impact on cinema and the timeless appeal of
our films. This documentary, in collaboration with Deep Fusion Films and Sky, will delve into
the rich history and cultural significance of Hammer, bringing to light the stories and artistry
behind our most iconic productions. We are excited to share this journey with our loyal fans
and introduce the magic of Hammer to new audiences.”