Children of the Damned
Director: Anton Leader
Actors: Ian Hendry, Alan Badel, Barbara Ferris
PlotIn a chilling exploration of human evolution and its potential repercussions, scientists become intrigued by six exceptionally gifted children from different parts of the world, each born to single mothers and possessing extraordinary intelligence and telepathic abilities. Brought together to London for study, these children display uncanny similar characteristics, yet bewildering tests yield little insight into the source of their powers. As tensions mount, the government grows wary of the children, perceiving them as a possible threat to national security. Meanwhile, a psychologist, Dr. Tom Llewellyn, and an analyst, David Neville, delve deeper into uncovering the mystery surrounding this uncanny synchrony.
As the narrative unfolds, local and international espionage intertwines with scientific intrigue, escalating fears about the children's unearthly abilities. Harbored in an abandoned church, the children work as a unit, seemingly detached from fear yet keenly aware of the growing suspicion surrounding them. Their telepathic communication allows them to anticipate the actions of those around them. Caught between protective instincts and paranoia-fueled hostility, global governments debate their next steps. This confrontation brings forth crucial moral dilemmas regarding the boundaries of human advancement, autonomy, and coexistent peril. The presence of these extraordinary children serves as both a promise and a deep-seated anxiety about the potential paths humanity could tread in pursuit of evolution's boundless frontier.
Writers: John Briley, John Wyndham
Release Date: 29 Jan 1964
Runtime: 89 min
Rating: Approved
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English, Russian
Home Video Reviews
A fitfully impressive film with dark connotations, 'Children of the Damned' shines with Warner Archive's brilliant A/V restoration despite mixed elements.
Read our review of Children of the Damned Blu-ray Warner Archive Collection to find out more