The surprising cleverness of ‘Embryo’

1976 was a game-changing year for cinema. Such classics as “Rocky,” “Taxi Driver,” “Network,” “Carrie” and “Logan’s Run” came out during this creatively fueled time and have left their mark on cinema. However, one movie that seems to have been all but forgotten from this time is the horror sci-fi hidden gem “Embryo.”

This bizarre tale tells the story of a scientist who creates a special growth hormone that gives fetuses accelerated development. This wild experiment results in the creation of a 22-year old woman in the span of a month, who soon becomes his lab assistant and lover. But with her aging moving at a quicker rate than expected, a plethora of dark scenarios begin to take shape that will bring to light the dangers of creating an existence with no real life.

While not a masterpiece, “Embryo” makes for surprisingly clever and engaging horror viewing that mostly takes place of its wild premise to craft a truly riveting experience. Given the subject matter, “Embryo” takes the time to explore the scientific and moral ethics of living such a life. The time given to looking into this idea pays off, as the horror elements feel well built up and full of tension, leading to an exciting and emotionally fueled finale.

The cast prove surprisingly good and equally elevate the material. Rock Hudson and Victoria Spencer truly make the movie, treating the material with the level of emotional heft required. The latter delivers more than enough emotionally to bring the character to some tragic places by the end. Alongside these two are terrific supporting performances by Roddy McDowall, Diane Ludd and Jack Colvin.

The film’s direction also gives the audience plenty of time to soak in the chilling darkness. While remaining grounded and realistic in its overall tone, the moody cinematography gives the film a haunting feel that allows for the build up to become more effective. The editing is also surprisingly patient, with great transitions within scenes that allow for the pacing to hold in the right spot.

With so much on its plate, the film does lose its footing at some points. This ends up resulting in some elements of its screenplay to feel somewhat muddled, with certain characters and plot points being put on the back burner and forgotten as the film progresses. Allowing for more time to balance out these elements could have resulted in far more punchy build up and audience involvement.

Despite this, “Embryo” makes for solid Halloween viewing that is worth checking out. Taking its meaty ideas in stride, the film makes for a nice change of pace for those looking for a slightly more sophisticated spook during their holiday binge.