The Tomb of Ligeia (1965)

The last of Corman’s Poe films gives viewers further reason to hate the aristocracy, as if more were needed. Vincent plays a man held in thrall from beyond the grave by a mating of two souls. The horror of it affects his waking hours and makes him more aggressive than we usually see him. Elizabeth Shepherd is his love interest; she’s excellent in a dual role.
It throws in references to other Poe works just for the hell of it, but what really sets it apart is the beautiful, poetic language used and the stunning location work in and around the ruins of a picturesque Norfolk abbey. I’d willingly forgo sleep just to be able to live there.

4 conqueror worms out of 5

The Masque of the Red Death (1964)

Masque isn't just the best of Corman’s Poe adaptations, it’s arguably the best film he ever made, period! Equal credit must go to cinematographer Nicolas Roeg for the stunning array of colour that he helped realise. By bringing hues typically found in the costume department to every facet of the production the two men created a thing of beauty. It’s never lurid; it’s as striking as fresh blood on white lace would've been to an audience used to B+W.
Even the performances are colourful. Vincent saturated his character with a vile substance; he's a Prince of vices in the service of an even greater one.

5 changing rooms out of 5