THE PHANTOM LIGHT (1935) isn't exactly a horror film, better described as a light mystery thriller, but it has plenty in common with THE OLD DARK HOUSE and the popular sub-genre of movies that followed the Universal film's success. Instead of a creepy old mansion the action here takes place in a creepy old three-storey lighthouse, where a new keeper finds his patience tested by disparate elements: a nosy female psychic investigator, endless mysterious disappearances, a madman confined to his bed, and a strange character determined to access the building. Is the lighthouse cursed or haunted after all?
It's a lively and engaging little piece that benefits hugely from the presence of music hall comedian Gordon Harker as the lead character. He's quick with his wits and his one-liners and every scene featuring him is a pleasure. Binnie Hale is also great fun and brings warmth and humour to what could have been a simple 'chorus girl' type role. In the hands of Michael Powell, no less, the atmospheric is thick and the thrills genuinely surprising; it soon builds up to a brisk action climax that doesn't disappoint. The British Network DVD offers a fine presentation of this enjoyable film of the era.
It's a lively and engaging little piece that benefits hugely from the presence of music hall comedian Gordon Harker as the lead character. He's quick with his wits and his one-liners and every scene featuring him is a pleasure. Binnie Hale is also great fun and brings warmth and humour to what could have been a simple 'chorus girl' type role. In the hands of Michael Powell, no less, the atmospheric is thick and the thrills genuinely surprising; it soon builds up to a brisk action climax that doesn't disappoint. The British Network DVD offers a fine presentation of this enjoyable film of the era.