This odd British film, a sort of early model for “Scream,” features Price and Cushing in what is generally a flawed production. Originally filmed in late spring 1973 under the name "The Revenge of Dr. Death," it was ultimately released as “Madhouse.” It didn’t reach American screens until December of 1974, over a year and a half later. While watching, I found myself drawing comparisons to “Scream,” which definitely owes something to this earlier movie—though I prefer the 1996 film. The picture is peculiar and occasionally feels disjointed because of editing choices made by Milton Subotsky, but it’s still visually interesting and enjoyable. Price and Cushing are certainly standouts among the cast, and there are other memorable performances too, including Robert Quarry's appearance in costume from “Count Yorga, Vampire” during a party scene. Linda Hayden is particularly good within the group of female actors, though several others deserve mention, like Julie Crosthwait (as Ellen), Adrienne Corri (Faye), Catherine Willmer (Louise) and Jenny Lee-Wright (Carol). Certain scenes involving the character Faye are quite striking, prompting thoughts about whether they might have influenced Overkill’s song “Playing with Spiders/Skullkrusher.” The film's disappointing performance at the box office brought an end to Price’s 14-year partnership with American International Pictures, a relationship that began with "House of Usher." It’s interesting to note that clips from "Pit and the Pendulum," "Tales of Terror," "The Masque of Red Death," “The Raven” and “Scream and Scream Again,” are incorporated, all presented as Dr. Death (Price) films. It has a running time of approximately 1 hour, 29 minutes and was filmed primarily in Twickenham studios, southwest of London, along with locations within the city itself, and Pryford Manor in Surrey, which is even further southwest of London. GRADE: B

Source on TMDB