Those who have seen Barrymore's and March's take on R.L. Stevenson's ever-popular character might be a tad disappointed with Hammer's effort, but director Terence Fisher tries to bring his own touch to the classic tale. The result is a seemingly adult-oriented plot with blackmail, post-marital affair, and self-virtues running alongside the main premise.
Christopher Lee is in his elements as usual, but Paul Massie steals most scenes when he is Mr. Hyde - vile, dark, complicated, brutal...but his Dr Jekyll falls flat. The two women actors do well with whatever space the script gives them. Without a doubt, the film's saving grace is Lee.
Watch this if you have time to spare. Otherwise, give it a skip.
* * ½