Roy William Neill directed Boris Karloff in two roles: Anton, cultured, sophisticated and benevolent; then his twin brother Gregor, a Baron who is crude and crafty, but evil, and hated by his people for his tyranny. He entices Anton back home with promises of appeasement to his people(who threaten to revolt) by stepping aside and letting Anton assume power. He does this, but cruelly and cleverly murders his brother, then resumes the throne by impersonating him! This works for a short time, but he is found out, leading to the fulfillment of the old prophecy about the brothers and the fabled black room... Karloff is excellent in two distinct performances, and film interesting and atmospheric.
Review of The Black Room
