I’m aware of a looming threat—a force that will shatter the very foundations around us. We need to prepare ourselves for what is coming. The Damned (also known as These Are The Damned) was directed by Joseph Losey and adapted from H.L. Lawrence's novel The Children of Light, with screenplay by Evan Jones. It features Macdonald Carey, Shirley Anne Field, Oliver Reed, Alexander Knox, Viveca Lindfors, and Walter Gotell. James Bernard composed the music, and Arthur Grant handled the cinematography. The story unfolds on the South Coast of England, bringing together an American tourist, a Teddy Boy gang leader, and his troubled sister as they find themselves in a dangerous situation beneath the cliffs of Weymouth. After being blacklisted in Hollywood, Joseph Losey relocated to Britain to continue his work. 1963 brought two films from Losey: The Servant, which received considerable praise, and The Damned, completed in 1961 but delayed for reasons that remain unclear. It turns out that The Damned is a largely overlooked gem—a distinctive film that defies easy categorization, one of Hammer Films’ more unusual yet brilliant productions. It should be stated upfront that this isn't a feel-good movie; from an initial violent mugging to a disturbing ending, a sense of pessimism and bleakness permeates the entire story. It shares similarities with The Quatermass films and John Wyndham’s Midwich Cuckoos, but for much of its running time, it remains unclear where the narrative is headed. The setting is a bright and lively seaside town (Weymouth, one of my favorite British resorts), accompanied by an annoyingly catchy tune ("Black Leather Rock") as we meet the main characters. Initially, it seems like a film about teenage angst—something akin to Black Rebel Motorcycle Club—exploring the dangers of gang culture and the divide between generations. However, that’s just a surface layer; this is really a tragic collision of integrity and troubled souls, where fate deals a devastating blow. Losey then crafts compelling characters and striking visuals as we move toward a fascinating and chilling final third. The relationship between King and Joan is revealed gradually through clever dialogue—we don't need explanations, but it’s clear that the dynamic is unhealthy from King's perspective. Simon attempts to build a connection with Joan under difficult circumstances. At first, it seems odd to pair Simon, who appears too old, with the alluring Joan, but as background details emerge, her seeking comfort in an older man becomes more believable. Bernard (Knox) and Freya (Lindfors) exist on the periphery for a time; he’s a scientist, she's a sculptress, and they themselves are involved in a peculiar relationship. He is enigmatic and soon to be at the center of a terrible secret, while she is eccentric, spending her time in her cliff-top studio creating strange sculptures—Losey uses these images effectively to maintain an unsettling atmosphere, creating memorable visuals that have a significant impact as The Damned reveals its secrets. Science fiction elements enter the story, along with government intrigue and the introduction of children—the children of light... The final third is truly remarkable, both in terms of narrative and Losey’s skill at composing striking images (and eliciting impressive performances from his cast, particularly Lindfors). It becomes thrilling yet profoundly sad as it approaches its bleak conclusion. Some might argue that its central message is heavy-handed, and that Carey isn't ideally suited for an action hero role, but the film transcends these minor flaws. When the camera pulls back from the cliffs to reveal a prosperous seaside town, with children’s voices still echoing in our ears, you know you have witnessed something truly special. 9/10 One of Hammer’s lesser-known classics, The Damned can be found on The Icons of Suspense Hammer Collection. Region 1, it includes five other films, two of which—Cash On Demand and Never Take Sweets from A Stranger—are also hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The transfers are excellent for viewing pleasure, and I highly recommend this collection.

Source on TMDB