Hammer House of Horror: Guardian of the Abyss (1980)
Season 1, Episode 10
8/10
Looking glass into the great evil beyond
3 February 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Antiques exporter Michael Roberts (a fine performance by Ray Lonnen) acquires a scrying glass at an auction and decides to have it appraised. This puts Michael in the path of Allison (the lovely and beguiling Rosalyn Lander), who's on the run from a sinister secret society of devil worshipers led by evil hypnotist Charles Randolph (well played with deliciously wicked aplomb by John Carson).

Director Don Sharp relates the absorbing story at a snappy pace, builds a good deal of tension, and ably crafts a spooky atmosphere. This episode further benefits from uniformly excellent acting from a bang-up cast: Paul Darrow as pesky rival Andrews, Caroline Langrishe as chipper sales lady Tina, and, in an oddly uncredited, yet substantial role, the delightful Barbara Ewing as Michael's sassy and helpful friend Laura. The surprise grim ending packs a startling punch. John McCabe's spirited shuddery score hits the spine-tingling spot. An on the money episode.
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