"In the Grip of Terror" by Amicus Productions - Horror Movie
Created by Lawrie Brewster
Amicus Productions is rising from the grave with its first horror film in over 30 years. With your help, we can bring it back for good!
Latest Updates from Our Project:
Merry XMAS and Important Amicus Update!
28 days ago
– Wed, Dec 18, 2024 at 10:24:40 AM
Have a Great Merry Christmas Everyone!
Hello everyone! First of all, I hope you’re all set to enjoy a wonderful and well-deserved Christmas and New Year’s break. Goodness knows, Amicus Productions has been working their socks off to get our film in the can!
BTS on the One Way Ward
While progress has been a little slower than we’d hoped (running a film studio producing multiple feature films is tough... especially when you keep catching Covid and eat too many doughnuts) – I truly suffer for my art!
I’m delighted to say that our film is now in the can. However, some important changes have been made to In the Grip of Terror. The first of these is that the segment And the Deep Spake has transformed into Prognosis of Doom, which now features a much bigger wrap-around segment (think Amicus Productions’ Asylum) and you’ll be on the right track.
Laurence R Harvey as Dr. Graves!
This was necessary because, to put it bluntly, the film would have been two hours long otherwise! Rest assured, Laurence R. Harvey remains one of the stars of our production... and he is not alone.
I’m thrilled to announce that Golden Globe nominee and star of the Oscar-winning A Lion in Winter as well as Hammer’s Hands of the Ripper, Jane Merrow, will be appearing in our film, starring in the One Way Ward segment!
The Wonderful Jane Merrow from 'The System' starring opposite Oliver Reed
At the moment, I’m deep in the editing process. To give you an idea, folks, we’re working on a number of films simultaneously (and I know, you might be thinking, why not finish one before starting another?). Unfortunately, it just doesn’t work like that for an indie film studio, because – let’s face it – the set painters would starve and turn to cannibalism while waiting for the post-production nerds to finish their computer wizardry.
This is why the likely completion date for In the Grip of Terror will be early summer. I’m working my socks off right now, leading the post-production team, so it might get done sooner – but to give us some wriggle room (in case I get hit by a bus), that’s a realistic goal.
Also, all the merch and goodies will be sent out once the film is complete, so we’ll have to keep our powder dry until summer. But when glorious summer finally arrives, we shall celebrate with much Amicus merriment!
Your wonderful host Lawrie Brewster, on location with Jane Merrow (playing Margaret the Matron) and Chris Capaldi playing Dr. Richard MAITLAND!
Meet the Cast!
Jane Merrow as Matron Margaret
Chris Capaldi as Dr. Richard Maitland and Jane Merrow as Matron Margaret
Jonathan Hansler as Professor Walker
Miss Amicus (Megan Tremethick) as Nurse Charlotte
WIP on the Grading Look for our film!
I also wanted to take this opportunity to share with you the style of colour grading in our film and discuss the cinematography briefly. Back in the early 1970s, parfocal lenses and zooms were all the rage, largely thanks to advancements in technology. Naturally, we wanted to capture that aesthetic, but we also wanted to add a touch of our own to ensure we weren’t simply replicating the style of the era.
To achieve this, we’ve employed a more mobile camera approach, blending the iconic zoom techniques of that time with a crisp, modern dash of camera mobility. The result is a dynamic yet nostalgic look that honours the past while embracing the present.
As for the colour grade, we’re aiming for a cinematic aesthetic with a nostalgic edge. We’re still in the experimental phase, but I thought it might be fun to share some work-in-progress colour grades from the segment we just filmed.
Where can I learn more?
Amicus Productions is now part of the British Horror Studio—or perhaps it’s more accurate to say it’s leading the British Horror Studio. This isn’t just a film company; it’s an entire movement devoted to championing the golden era of British horror by producing new films inspired by the classics of Hammer and, of course, Amicus.
We’re updating our Patreon four times a week with in-depth articles like this one, packed with photos, behind-the-scenes goodies, and more. Contributions are always appreciated, but we’ve made sure there are free-tier options too—so nobody is left out.
I’d absolutely love for you to head over and join me on Patreon. It’s where I share not just updates about our films, but also our grand plans to build an entire film studio. It’s epic... and the only thing missing is you.
The Amicus Glamour Photo-Set Reward is DONE!
2 months ago
– Sat, Nov 02, 2024 at 09:03:28 AM
A Quick Update!
Hello, friends! In just a couple of weeks, we'll be filming the remaining Amicus segments, including the much-anticipated Amicus Wrap-Around segment! Everything is coming together beautifully, and I think the performances and footage capture the very best of the 60s and 70s film spirit combined with today’s independent filmmaking energy.
It’s very much in the style and spirit of our original Kickstarter pitch video! I’ll be posting more regular updates about the pre-production of these remaining segments on our free-to-join Patreon page, the British Horror Studio (BHS). BHS is a brand we’ve created that encompasses Amicus Productions, Hex Studios, and Fife Creative Studios (FCS). FCS focuses on education, events, and helping us organise future festivals!
If you’re not already there... you’re definitely missing out! Join today so you don’t miss all the awesome behind-the-scenes moments going into In the Grip of Terror and our other horror films.
Today, I’m thrilled to announce the release of the exquisitely sensual and thrilling Amicus Glamour Set, now available exclusively to British Horror Studio (BHS) members. This extensive photo set features over 100 stunning images, with Miss Amicus herself, Megan Tremethick, bringing four distinctive characters to life in her inimitable style.
The ravishing Megan directed each of her photo shoots with close collaboration from Cousin Michael, as the team worked tirelessly to recreate the sensual grandeur of various Gothic backdrops, including an 18th-century street—more than you could shake a digestive biscuit at! It’s a true feast for the senses.
Meet Mina the Village Girl!
As Mina, our spirited village girl, Megan strikes a series of evocative poses as she flees from a likely fanged predator, while still finding moments to revel in glamour amidst ancient stone pillars. Her resemblance to the iconic Ingrid Pitt is simply uncanny, conjuring a spirit both nostalgic and thrilling.
Here we see Mina in our custom-built street set, inspired by Edinburgh’s famous ‘Mary King’s Close,’ a haunting underground street. Hats off to the BHS team for bringing this eerie, evocative scene to life!
In true Megan fashion, she dives wholeheartedly into every role, whether on film or in stills. Here, she brings to life Carla the Vampire, donning a costume she designed herself!
Drawing inspiration from Ingrid Pitt’s character in The House That Dripped Blood, Megan crafted a dramatic cloak with a striking red lining, along with an elegantly eerie dress.
While a few photos may be a touch too daring for Kickstarter, let’s say Megan embraces the vampire’s seductive allure with graceful delight. Can we all agree she’s made to play a classic vampiress in an Amicus Production someday?
Meet '70s It Girl Meg and Secretary Meg!
These two personas were developed for our Amicus Productions Kickstarter for In the Grip of Terror and, naturally, they’re included in our Amicus Glamour Photo Set.
You can purchase the complete Amicus Glamour Set from our Patreon store, with every penny contributing to the growth and future of our British Horror Studios project, which includes supporting Amicus Productions!
The photo set includes over 100 photographs, plus a secret mini-set, which may just be the most tantalizing of all, featuring... a rather unexpected character!
Segment 2 in the Can! Amicus Update!
3 months ago
– Wed, Oct 16, 2024 at 06:48:50 AM
Firstly...
Firstly, before we dive into this update, I’d like to give you all a quick heads-up on where we’re posting updates for In the Grip of Terror and all of our retro horror films. You can find everything on our free-to-join Patreon, called the British Horror Studio. Each week, there are at least four posts, often more, filled with what we’re up to, plenty of pictures, fun details, and it’s also a brilliant way to get to know the team behind our Amicus project!
Now, rest assured, I’ve been working my socks off! If you saw me now, bedraggled as I am, you’d probably say, “Lawrie, take a day off!” But not until I finish this update!
Let’s kick off with some fantastic shots from the shoot!
Nick Ford as Hawyer, restrained by medical orderlies – taken by Sarah Daly.
Our shoot was an epic experience, with scenes set in our hospital ward, corridor, and a special Gothic bedroom we created. Naturally, it features a creepy painting of Mannering from Ambrose Bierce’s famous short story.
Here’s me as Mayley, a somewhat wimpy character, often dominated by Hawyer.
Sarah Thompson checks in on her son, played by Nathan L. Weller.
Richard and Jeannie Tatum Pate, hard at work at Pathhead Lunatic Asylum!
And, of course, our very own Miss Amicus, Megan Tremethick.
We had scenes set in the hospital ward, but the madness extended to the mental asylum dungeon, and of course, that Gothic set I mentioned! Let’s have a look:
Lit up and ready for action, with practical lighting from small lamps and candles – it looked fantastic in the footage, and I can’t wait for you to see it.
Meanwhile, our Chief Mortician, played by Peter Mahoney, checks on the patients during the night…
Here’s me pulling a funny face next to Alex Zorn, who plays Dr. Johnson – a former doctor, now committed to the asylum, and perhaps the only person who truly cares for the patients!
Fabio delivered an intense, expressive, and physical performance in the segment!
Here are some of the lads, soon to be joined by many others, who represent the Bedlam patients kept underground, forced to undergo bizarre experiments in a futile attempt to create happiness… what could possibly go wrong?
And here’s Novarro Ramon with some beautiful ladies – Tia, Beverly, and Megan!
In a wild nod to Amicus Productions’ rockabilly past, we’ve even got a surreal little sequence that I think will blow people away.
I can safely say this is our most ambitious undertaking of all the segments, and now that it’s in the can, it’s an incredible achievement.
Now, our focus shifts to the next segment and the wrap-around. This does mean the film won’t be finished until Q1 or Q2 next year, but that’s due to our commitment to quality. With so many projects on the go (as a film studio, we’ve got to juggle multiple films), we’re making sure quality is never compromised.
So far, with our first segment and this one, I feel we’re really hitting the mark. Next up is a creepy, atmospheric segment... and that’s where Cool Air comes in.
The Amicus Photo-Set!
Thanks for your patience with this, everyone. The final component of the photo-set is being produced on Friday, and we hope to deliver the reward over the weekend, but most likely by next Tuesday.
And once again, please do join the British Horror Studio! You’ll get loads more updates, and you can comment on posts or get in touch with me and the team. You can visit right here: https://www.patreon.com/britishhorrorstudio
NEW! The Femme Fatale Photo-Set Offer & Sneak Peek of Queen Ginnarra!
4 months ago
– Tue, Sep 03, 2024 at 03:08:32 AM
Firstly, I want to give a huge thank you to everyone who has supported my work, including with Amicus, and our current campaign for Black Chariot. We're on the road with Black Chariot (pun intended, haha) to create a fantastic and spine-tingling horror film noir.
Now, I'm excited to announce new rewards for our wonderful backers, along with an exclusive sneak peek of a work-in-progress scene from our second film, The Reign of Queen Ginnara, which you can also pledge for!
So, without further ado, let's dive into the goodies!
Femme Fatale Double Photo-Set!
Starring Megan Tremethick... I'm proud to present not one, but two photo-sets for the price of one! This is our biggest photo-set yet, featuring over 100 pictures. The sets are split into two themes: the heartbreakingly seductive Femme Fatale set, inspired by the charged intensity of film noir, and the Sensual Hitchcock set, which explores themes of sensuality, obsession, and murder, including a tribute to Hitchcock's ingenious Vertigo!
You can get this photo-set in two ways: by choosing the 'Femme Fatale Double Photo-Set' as an add-on on our campaign for Black Chariot.
Also, this set and the Kawaii and Osorishii photo-sets, featuring Megan Tremethick, are now complete and will be fulfilled immediately when the campaign ends.
A Sneak Peek of 'The Reign of Queen Ginnara'
I am also thrilled to offer a sneak peek of the stunning artwork and a secret work-in-progress glimpse of a scene from our movie, starring Megan Tremethick!
Simply click the temp-graded still from the film below for a secret YouTube link to a scene that showcases the creepy intensity Megan Tremethick brings to our second movie!
You can pledge for The Reign of Queen Ginnarra either separately or, preferably (haha), as an add-on! You can also pledge for thank-you credits and even producer-tier rewards in the add-ons section.
To add an add-on to your pledge, just click 'Manage Pledge,' then 'Change Your Pledge,' re-select the reward you previously chose, and voilà—the add-ons list will appear!
Here is a glimpse of the beautiful artwork we've prepared for The Reign of Queen Ginnara. There are signed and complete editions of this reward available in our add-ons too!
Last but not Least! The Book of Beastly Creatures Volumes 1 and 2
We're also working hard to complete the second volume of our stunning hardback book of horror short stories, each featuring a different monster or demon. Each story includes an illustration, and in a bonus section, we’ve even included rules using the DnD Open Gaming License, allowing you to feature those same creatures or cursed items in your gaming campaigns!
The Book of Beastly Creatures Volume 1 is already complete and ready for dispatch when the campaign ends. The second volume is nearing completion and will be sent out in the next 2–3 months.
I almost forgot!
And, if you haven't yet pledged for the cheeky but charming Kawaii and Osorishii Photo-Sets that Megan produced, which draw inspiration from Anime and J-Horror, you can now get them as add-on rewards.
Both sets are now complete and ready for fulfillment. Here's a sneak peek at a more work-friendly version!
And fear not... our Amicus Photo-Set is hot on the trail and will come out next month!
Chilling New Rewards and Breathtaking Artwork
5 months ago
– Wed, Aug 28, 2024 at 05:53:17 AM
While work continues on In the Grip of Terror, I want to draw your attention to a fantastic new project that is in the late stages of post-production. We're making this available as an add-on to support our campaign for Black Chariot.
Black Chariot, like In the Grip of Terror, is a film that isn’t supposed to be made these days. It’s a non-ironic, non-meta, black-and-white thriller set in the 1950s, in the style of Hitchcock, with a touch of supernatural horror. That doesn't happen often, right?
Well... until we started working together to make the impossible possible.
Similarly, my new film, which is now available for you to back, also stars Miss Amicus (Megan Tremethick), who plays a terrifying queen styling herself as the handmaiden to the Old Ones, just like in Black Chariot and In the Grip of Terror.
The film is a blend of I, Claudius and Lovecraft, filled with murder, occultism, betrayal, and disaster... perhaps there’s even a hint of Caligula in it. This epic-length indie horror Lovecraftian medieval descent into madness (that's a mouthful!) is almost two and a half hours long, making it the biggest film I've ever made.
Now, you can pledge for The Reign of Queen Ginnarra as a reward or add-on reward in our campaign. But first, let me show you some of the artwork for the Blu-ray.
Everyone has a choice of Digital, Blu-Ray Special Edition, Signed, or Complete Edition Blu-rays, all of which are available as add-ons. Additionally, backers can now upgrade their pledges to receive both films, thank you credits, and even producer credits—all of which offer great savings!
A Night With Jigme
Megan Tremethick has generously made her fantastic story reward available as an add-on to help us reach our stretch goals for Black Chariot. Isn't she amazing?
So, what does this reward include? It features Jigme, a character Megan Tremethick developed as a sword-and-sorcery assassin in service of the Old Ones. These stories are quite brutal, drawing inspiration from the works of Robert E. Howard (a good friend of H. P. Lovecraft).
In fact, her narrated stories are feature-length, offering a wonderful listening experience. Additionally, these stories are recorded with an intimate voice-over that places you right beside her by the campfire at night, creating a tantalizing and immersive experience. On top of that, this reward also includes a fantastic bundle of 37 photographs of Jigme in action!
You can add this excellent reward to your pledge by selecting 'A Night with Jigme' in the Reward Add-ons section. If you have already pledged, go to 'Manage Your Pledge,' choose 'Change Your Pledge,' and reselect your current reward tier. You will then be prompted to select any add-ons, including 'A Night with Jigme,' which you can confirm.
