This world is filled with prehistoric bird-like creatures with telekinetic powers that help them control their minions (all of whom seem determined to cover up their cone shaped balding heads with futile comb overs). Both David and Dr. Perry are caught and along with other prisoners are made to work as slaves in the lava-fuelled city of the evil ruling giant birds. Inexplicably (but very fortunately) all of the local tribes speak perfect English and form instant bonds with pure of heart David.
Due to a misunderstanding David has upset his potential love interest, the region’s princess Dia (Caroline Munro). After escaping the city and finding Dia once more, David is determined to both save his old friend and the sub-terranian world from its evil overlords.
The sound editing and foley work on At the Earth’s Core are marvellous with the cone headed apes under the birds’ control speaking in sharp, garbled computer tones. The sets and lighting are of their time but well constructed and effective enough that one begins to ignore how an underworld would have a purple blue sky or faraway mountains.
Peter Cushing plays his part and trowels on broad and knowing hysterics throughout. Cushing also has the marvellous line ‘You cannot mesmerize me. I’m British!’ before instantly becoming mesmerized. The storytelling is muddled and David’s love story with Dia is at times crowbarred into the story but as a visual spectacle it is an enjoyable matinee feature.
