House of Wax
A sculptor opens a wax museum to showcase the likenesses of famous historical figures, but quickly runs into trouble when his business partner demands the exhibits become more extreme in order to increase profits.
Critics Sentiment
Sue strikes Jarrod breaking his wax mask revealing disfigured face
Burke demands sensational exhibits while Jarrod refuses commercial direction
The film builds from the mundane business conflict to the shocking revelation of Jarrod's true identity and disfigured face.
House of Wax maintains strong audience appreciation throughout, anchored by Vincent Price's compelling dual performance as both sympathetic artist and vengeful killer. The film builds steadily from its period setup through effective horror sequences, peaking with the iconic mask-breaking revelation scene. Critics consistently praised the Gothic atmosphere, production design, and Price's acting while noting some dated dialogue and gimmicky 3D sequences.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 43
Vincent Price
Henry Jarrod
Frank Lovejoy
Tom Brennan
Phyllis Kirk
Sue Allen
Carolyn Jones
Cathy Gray
Paul Picerni
Scott Andrews
Roy Roberts
Matthew Burke
Angela Clarke
Mrs. Andrews
Paul Cavanagh
Sidney Wallace
Dabbs Greer
Shane
Charles Bronson
Igor
Reggie Rymal
Barker
Oliver Blake
Man Checking His Watch (uncredited)
Larri Thomas
Can-Can Dancer (uncredited)
Joanne Brown
Girlfriend (uncredited)
Steve Carruthers
Museum Patron (uncredited)
Leo Curley
Portly Man (uncredited)
Dan Dowling
Museum Patron (uncredited)
Frank Ferguson
Medical Examiner (uncredited)
Stuart Hall
Museum Patron (uncredited)
Mary Lou Holloway
Millie (uncredited)
Crew
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