A few thoughts: One of the defining "old dark house" films (shocking, I know), and one of only 4 horror movies ever directed by James Whale -- the others being Frankenstein, Bride Of Frankenstein, and The Invisible Man. While it clearly doesn't hold up to those other three, this is still one of the more entertaining films of the early '30s. With a massive cast of strange and/or creepy characters, the movie rarely feels dull or unengaging while introducing us to these weirdos. Sadly, even at only 72~ minutes, there are moments near the film's midway point (after most of the film's characters have already shown up) where things begin to stagnate. Luckily, a few decisions are made near the end that help rack up the tension, and the whole thing comes together nicely surrounding the wholly unsettling performance by Brember Wills. The setting and overall look of the movie is great, the cast does a wonderful job, and though it drags a little in the middle, it's still a great way to spend 70 minutes.
Fans of Universal horror, James Whale, or just anyone curious to see one of the original old dark house films.
My grade: B
No comments:
Post a Comment