Change Your Image
william-gladstone
Reviews
The Undying Monster (1942)
Fast paced, sincerely spooky who done it
What a great little film! Though the plot of The Undying Monster lifts rather liberally (and shamelessly) from The Hound of the Baskervilles, there is a nice twist that I won't give away (even though that premise was a bit worn by 1942, as well), that takes things in a pleasing direction. Also, as these short installments go, things can get a bit muddled in the hustle and bustle of moving the story along.
But these facts hardly dampen the enjoyment of this outing, because the action is well placed and exciting, the intrigue believable, the dark imagery extremely effective, and the acting straightforward and competent without being melodramatic or heavy handed (or silly when a bit of comic quip is employed).
As always, those looking for cohesiveness of storyline or life changing performances should know they're barking up the wrong tree; but for those who love a lively who (or what) done it creep fest of a yarn, there will be little to no disappointment with The Undying Monster.
Invisible Ghost (1941)
Lugosi as the fallen hero...
The Invisible Ghost is a movie I've watched several times and enjoy maybe because of its flaws rather than in spite of them. Like many...most...in the low budget realm, it takes little time with character development and absolutely requires the audience to incorporate their suspension of disbelief by letting the plot rather forcefully carry itself along without getting bogged down in the details of "that is NOT how it would have happened..."
And while it gives away all its secrets early, The Invisible Ghost still manages to hold things together in great part to a quite enjoyable performance from Bela Lugosi, whose sympathetic Dr. Kessler seamlessly drifts from tender to benevolent to eccentric to psychotic; as well as one from Clarence Muse, whose Evans the butler (despite what the promo poster indicates) allows a rare opportunity for an African American actor in the times, especially in the horror genre, to portray someone who is taken seriously in a position of reliance, stability, common sense, and leadership within the home.
I watch these old B movies as much for the mood and imagery as anything else, and there are certainly some moments that not only make for a bit of uneasiness, as "ghostly faces" gaze forlornly through windows, but also garner sympathy, especially one tenderly dramatic scene amongst the supporting cast that also serves as the closest "twist" in the entire affair.
Though the ending is a bit of a sensational avalanche, it's not completely without merit, bringing closure, resolve, a sense of relief, and an uneasy happiness for those characters still standing in The Invisible Ghost.
The Ghost Walks (1934)
Delightful Melo-com-spooky Flick
I love B horror movies, especially from the 30s and 40s, and this one does not disappoint. Equal parts creepy and melodramatic, with a lighthearted comedic flair and interesting plot devise, it's enjoyable for not taking itself too seriously or collapsing into silliness, while still creating an unsettling atmosphere until you're in on the gag. Though most will figure out the twist before it becomes obvious, there's enough "Who could it be?" subterfuge to keep interest, along with some spirited (as well as some indifferent) performances, and certainty worth an hour and some change to anyone interested in the genre.