Der wandelnde Leichnam

Michael Curtiz directed this odd combination of gangster and horror films for Warner Bros. Karloff is a minor gangster released from prison who is framed and executed for murder. He's brought back to life when his name is cleared and confronts each of the men who framed him with his knowledge from beyond the grave. The execution scene is absolutely excruciating, as the only witnesses to the crime try to get the corrupt governor to call in a pardon while the music-loving Karloff walks to the electric chair, accompanied by a cello.

One of the best horror films of the 30s. The only criticism lies in some of the acting by the secondary characters. Otherwise, superb direction, magnificent Hal Mohr photography, good script and story, and excellent music score by Bernhard Kaun (which was NOT listed in the credits by the way). Even if you are not a horror fan, it rates high as a rainy day diversion.

It's a dead man walking in this film with Boris Karloff brought back to life by a doctor (Edmund Gwenn - Miracle on 34th Street).

There was no surprises as I would have expected, as the reanimation was posted all over the newspapers the next day.

It's not just a horror film, but a gangster film, as Ellman (Karloff) was executed for a crime he didn't commit.

It was really funny when he went after those involved in the conspiracy to frame him. A little supernatural work on a lot of guilty consciences.

It was a fascinating film, and Gwenn was superb. Karloff was also very good.

I have to agree with those who consider Karloff an underrated actor. Given the nature of this film and its fantastic premise, he brings a real subtlety to the role. After each of his antagonists meet their untimely demise, there is just a hint of remorse and sadness. Who else in the horror genre would have underplayed it like that? Karloff becomes the walking conscience of his tormentors and apart from the films failings regarding plot, effects etc., I think it works quite nicely on the level of allegory.

Excellent little horror film directed by the amazingly talented Michael Curtiz, the same man who would later give up Casablanca amongst many other classic films.

The story is a genre mashup of gangster and horror and at only about 1 hour 5 minutes, there isn't much time to lag. With such a skilled eye behind the camera, we are treated to a film that does not bore.

Boris Karloff is the star and he does such a great job of bringing fright to the picture. For someone interested in the acting of Karloff or the films of Curtiz, this is a must see!

7.0 / 10

--A Kat Pirate Screener