X the Unknown (1956)

X the Unknown
Directed by Leslie Norman
Written by Jimmy Sangster
1956/UK
Exclusive Films/Hammer Films
First viewing/Netflix rental

[box] Dr. Adam Royston: It’s a particle of mud. But by virtue of its atomic structure it emits radiation. That’s all it is. Just mud. How do you kill mud?[/box]

Here is another scary science-fiction film from the early days of Hammer Films.  So far these are really working well for me.

A British army unit is receiving training in the use of geiger counters.  One of the men is taking his time and gets a reading where no isotopes have been planted.  Suddenly the earth swallows him up.  A comrade nearby receives radiation burns.  Mysteriously, no radiation is found in the area thereafter.

The authorities seek an explanation at an atomic research facility.  There they meet with renegade scientist Dr. Adam Royston (Dean Jagger) who has been conducting some unauthorized experiments involving cobalt.  He agrees to investigate and is soon joined by a detective (Leo McKern) from the Atomic Energy Commission.

A series of horrific deaths ensue accompanied by mysterious break-ins into locations containing radioactive materials, such as the lab and a hospital.  No explanation is forthcoming until Royston comes up with a complicate theory involving the evolution of intelligence at the earth’s core.  After that it is a race to the end as the deaths continue and the deadly substance grows and becomes visible.  With Anthony Newley as one of the soldiers.

I liked this one a lot.  It is impressive how creepy something can be without much in the way of special effects, a monster, or blood.  I don’t think Dean Jagger ever gave a bad performance and he has just the right air of sober thoughtfulness here.  Recommended to sci-fi fans.

Trailer