A superior entry in the Universal series of Sherlock Holmes films. Holmes is called in to investigate a series of murders among a group of "good comrades" living together in a Scottish castle. Each victim receives a letter containing orange pips prior to being horribly murdered. With his distinctive voice and mannerisms, Basil Rathbone is the definitive Holmes. On hand as well are Nigel Bruce as Dr. Watson and Dennis Hoey as Inspector Lestrade. Both are hilarious as they engage in their games of oneupmanship on each other but never quite get it right, providing the perfect foil for Holmes. There are suspects galore, including the eccentric house owner, a surgeon who was implicated but never charged in a previous murder, a surly retired ships captain, the man who suggested they all have insurance policies which would benefit the surviving comrades, a grim-faced housekeeper who delivers the dreaded letters.... Even the house is properly atmospheric, with eerie noises and secret passage ways. All in all, a great load of fun.
Review of The House of Fear
