This Halloween, Hammer Films invites horror fans to experience an unparalleled celebration of the studio’s legendary legacy. The highly anticipated 4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray release of a brand-new 4K restoration of Captain Kronos Vampire Hunter becomes available for pre-order on Thursday 31st October, marking the cult classic’s 50th anniversary.
The home entertainment announcement kicks off Hammer Films’ 90th anniversary celebrations including a partnership with Sky Arts for the premiere of Deep Fusion Films’ new documentary Hammer: Heroes, Legends and Monsters, a deep dive into the iconic studio’s legacy which will be shown exclusively on Sky Arts at 9pm on 31st October. Throughout November, Sky Arts is then screening a selection of classic Hammer horror to honour the 90th anniversary on 9th November.
Hammer Films brings cult classic Captain Kronos Vampire Hunter back to life as the first stunning 4K restoration from the new Hammer team, under John Gore’s leadership. Written and directed by the legendary Brian Clemens (The Avengers, The Professionals) and originally released in 1974, this swashbuckling horror film has been meticulously restored from the original film negatives. It will be celebrating its 50th anniversary with a limited collector’s edition 5-disc set (2 * UHD discs and 3 * Blu-rays) enclosed within a high-end, leather-feel slipcase with debossed red foil titling. Available for pre-order on 31st October, the limited collector’s edition features:
Three presentations of the film: UK Theatrical, US Theatrical and As-Filmed Versions
Brand-new documentary on Brian Clemens’ life and work by Chris Chapman, featuring interviews with Brian’s colleagues, friends and family
Brand-new introductions and commentary by Hammer icon and star Caroline Munro and Brian Clemens’ sons, Sam and George
Previously unseen interviews with Brian Clemens and star Horst Janson
Brand new artwork by world-renowned artist Graham Humphreys
High-end collectible packaging featuring the 5 discs, a double-sided poster, art cards, new booklet on the making of this cult classic and 100-page comic featuring a reprint of the Kronos strips from the legendary 1970s magazine The House of Hammer
A film that has only grown in significance since its 1974 release, it mixes swashbuckling action with horror; a bold and innovative departure for Hammer and one that continues to inspire filmmakers today.
This release not only revives a Hammer classic but reaffirms the studio’s commitment to restoring its cinematic treasures for today’s horror enthusiasts and dedicated collectors worldwide.
It is the first 4K restoration from John Gore’s Hammer team and an essential collector’s edition that offers a deep dive into the film’s creation and legacy. With extensive bonus materials, including new rare interviews and archival commentaries, it offers fans an unprecedented look behind the scenes of one of Hammer’s most innovative films.
“Captain Kronos Vampire Hunter represents the adventurous spirit of Hammer in the 1970s - a bold blend of horror, action and fantasy that was ahead of its time. This 4K restoration allows us to finally present the film in its full glory, and I’m thrilled that it’s the first of many Hammer Films restorations.” says John Gore, Hammer Films’ CEO and Chairman.
Leading lady Caroline Munro reflects “I have such fond memories of working on Captain Kronos. It was a true passion project and seeing it restored in 4K is like watching it with new eyes. Fans are in for a real treat with this release - it looks stunning and captures all the excitement we felt making it.”
Sam Clemens, son of writer/director Brian Clemens, echoes this sentiment: “My father was always proud of Captain Kronos. He saw it as a fresh take on the vampire mythos and a character who could have spawned a series. This 4K restoration is the version he would have wanted fans to experience.”
