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GKoukal
Reviews
Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man (1943)
Serious script and solid acting elevate this classic
After "Son of Frankenstein", this was the only Universal Frankenstein film with a serious script and excellent performances that approached the level of an "A" horror film. Curt Siodmak found an excellent 'hook' for this movie (the Wolfman wants death; the Monster wants life) and the story slowly and skillfully builds to a most interesting and entertaining climax with wonderful dialog and character development throughout. Everyone, from the bit players featured prominently in the opening graveyard sequence to the featured actors, performs their roles with a believability and sincerity not often found in movies of this genre. Ilona Massey brings style, class and strength to the part of Baronness Frankenstein, as does Patric Knowles as Dr. Mannering. Lon Chaney, Jr. is at his best; his dramatic exchange with Dr. Mannering during the village festival clearly demonstrates an acting ability too infrequently tapped into. Even though the decision to cut his dialog hurt his performance, Bela Lugosi is an interesting and intriguing Monster. His creature is far more expressive than either the Lon Chaney, Jr. or Glenn Strange Monsters, who emote very little (and open their eyes even less). With a solid script and excellent acting all around, this is one classic that I am happy to return to over and over again.
ABBA: The Movie (1977)
My partner is crazy for this movie!
My partner saw this movie 20 years ago in El Salvador! He has never ceased to tell me what a wonderful movie this is and how it changed his life forever! Please, Video Gods, put this movie out on DVD before he goes crazy!
On the Wrong Trek (1936)
A pleasant comedy guaranteed to make you smile.
The time-honored story line of "On The Wrong Trek" features a family vacation gone awry due to the inclusion of an overbearing mother-in-law ("Mother knows best, dear."). What sets this story apart is the sheer likability and charm of Charley Chase and Rosina Lawrence as the husband and wife on a trip that's not going to go as planned. After many misadventures (and one hilarious episode where a good samaritan's offer of gasoline ends in his car being demolished), Charley and Rosina even provide a wonderful song and dance to a group of hobos. This comedy features gentle charm and family humor that would later become a mainstay in television sitcoms (there is even a funny cameo by Laurel & Hardy, with Chase making fun of Stan). This film is a wonderful introduction to Charley Chase, one of our most overlooked and underrated comedians.