Norma Marla, an actress active in the late 1950s and early 1960s, made her mark in cult cinema with her roles in The Ugly Duckling (1959) and The Two Faces of Dr. Jekyll (1960). In The Ugly Duckling, she embodies the charm of a classic tale with a twist, while in The Two Faces of Dr. Jekyll, she navigates the complexities of duality that define the horror genre. Her work reflects the playful yet dark tones of exploitation films, contributing to the distinct flavor of cult cinema during this era.
The Ugly Duckling
Henry Jekyll was always the outsider, a bungling and awkward buffoon, relegated to waiting for his invitation to participate in life that never arrived: until he discovers a medical formula developed by a dead uncle, which claimed to turn 'a man of timid disposition into a bold, fearless dragon'. Taking a draught of the elixir Henry is transformed into suave, sophisticated and highly desirable Teddy Hyde. Armed with his new persona, Teddy is ready to face the world; but is Henry ready for the consequences?
