Question 1

Why did the French release of The Skull have a different title?

Accepted Answer

The heirs of the Marquis de Sade pressed charges to prevent use of his name on advertising. The title was changed to 'Le Crâne Maléfique' at the last minute, covering the original 'Les forfaits du Marquis de Sade'.

Question 2

What was unusual about the screenplay for The Skull?

Accepted Answer

According to director Freddie Francis, the screenplay was little more than an outline, and much had to be added during filming and post-production to bring it to adequate feature length.

Question 3

Which film marked the first time Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee played genuine friends?

Accepted Answer

The Skull was the first film in which Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee played genuine friends with a long history together, despite it being their 12th film together.

Question 4

How does the film's portrayal of the Marquis de Sade differ from historical facts?

Accepted Answer

The film's account is preposterous: de Sade was never associated with diabolism, didn't believe in the devil or God, never killed anyone, and was the only French Revolution officer never to sign a death warrant.

Question 5

Why was The Skull's UK release delayed until 1966?

Accepted Answer

Although passed by the BBFC in October 1965, the film did not get a UK release until November 1966, when it was released as the bottom half of a double bill with 'The Idol'.

The Skull

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