The Walking Dead (1936)
 

Taped this a very long time ago, and recently watched it again due to the interest that's been rekindled by folks here at the CHFB.

I'm not gonna attempt a complete analysis/synopsis of the film. You can get an excellent summation at the imdb website. I'll just make some observations.

First, imdb notes that this film was somewhat of a surprise in that Karloff was under contract at Universal but apparently loaned out to Warner Bros. for this appearance. Man, does he look good, probably the most effective makeup he's ever had barring the Monster himself (and of course, the makeup is very reminsicent of the Monster). High, gaunt cheekbones with a longish crewcut streaked with white. Nice image.

Also liked the supporting cast -- who were apparently stock players for Warner Bros. -- a lot. They include Ricardo Cortez as Nolan, the slimy mob lawyer; Barton MacLane as Loder, the chief mobster; veteran Joe Sawyer as hitman Trigger Smith. On the side of good is Edmund Gwenn as Dr. Beaumont, the man who brings Karloff back to life after execution in the electric chair; and it was really fun to see Warren Hull play a straight dramatic role two years before his famous appearance as Richard Wentworth in The Spider's Web.

The supernatural element is minimal; however, Karloff seems to know where and when to appear in order to drive the villains to suicide or accidental death; and there seems to be some sort of angelic vengeance occurring in the final scene. The metaphysical aspect was a bit heavy-handed for this old cynic, but nothing I couldn't accept from a 1936 film.

All in all, a very enjoyable picture, and a worthy addition to Karloff's canon.

... Reed

Frankenstein

THE WOLF MAN(1941). One of the last "Golden Age " horrors I saw, not until I was 16 and more interested in making out with my first girlfriend::embarrassment:: than really paying attention to the film.
As older/wiser (and less hormonal), find it a very good film, but find it SO SAD as Larry certainly doesn't deserve his fate. Great cast, makeup, sets and music. ****

Just watched Universal's The Mummy. Wolf Man is next FryeDwight. Hope you're having fun. ::danger::

I always thought Larry's interactions with his Brit father, and house-servants, are very bizarre.

The Corpse Vanishes (1942)

Fun little flick with Lugosi from his Monogram days.

Bride of Frankenstein-1935.

The Wizard of Oz-1939. ::love::

The Beast From 20,000 Fathoms, for probably the two hundred and fifty third time.

Horror of Dracula
Dracula Has Risen From the Grave

Mr. Sardonicus

A delightful film! Great story line and effects. I very much recommend it.