The Raven

Universal Pictures | Release Date: July 8, 1935

6.5	USER SCORE Generally favorable reviews based on 6 Ratings

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FilipeNetoOct 9, 2021

This film brings together two notable horror movie stars, who have also made some films together: Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff, both at the height of their respective careers. Skillfully directed by Lew Landers, the film brings us a tenseThis film brings together two notable horror movie stars, who have also made some films together: Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff, both at the height of their respective careers. Skillfully directed by Lew Landers, the film brings us a tense and interesting story whose central theme is mania, obsession and psychological torture, in a tribute to the work of Edgar Allan Poe, an eminent writer who created chilling, inspiring and addictive horror tales.

The film focuses on the sinister Dr. Vollin, a retired doctor, prestigious and considered by his peers. What no one knows is that he has gone mad thanks to a disturbing obsession with instruments of torture, which he has studied, designed and built in the secrecy of a basement. After reluctantly treating the daughter of a local judge who had suffered brain damage in the aftermath of an accident, he goes crazy for her, and mistakes her gratitude and friendship for something else, urging her father to allow their marriage. In the face of denial, he chooses to get what he wants by the meanest means.

The film isn't scary, but it really manages to create a tense atmosphere and work with the audience's imagination to make them cling to the seat and see it through to the end. The main character is not only obsessive and sickly, but also psychopathic in the way he can't care about anything but himself. In between, Karloff's character is fascinating for his innate goodness, distorted and manipulated by the medical sadist's obsession he is forced to serve against his will. The inspiration in Poe's works is very present, both in this obsessive and sickly figure (I remember that obsession and mania are themes present in the author's most striking stories) and in the torture machines in the house.

The film is directly based on the extraordinary talent of Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff. None of them require introductions: they are two of the most striking and notable names in 20th century horror cinema. The two actors are in excellent shape here, and it's worth seeing the movie just to see them perform. Unfortunately, the rest of the cast doesn't do more than necessary: Irene Ware is the lady in distress, always scared and screaming, but she's good at the task. Samuel Hinds does what he can, but he has little to do really, and the rest of the cast can say the same.

Technically, the film provides us with excellent black-and-white cinematography, clear and with a pleasant contrast, without grain or dust. It is evident that the film has been restored, and congratulations to everyone who has contributed to the noble effort to keep these films in pristine condition and accessible to all. The costumes are quite good, but it's the incredible sets and well-designed props that deserve a particularly positive note.… Expand

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