Toward the start of the MGM series Bela Lugosi had played a role in the Black Camel, not it was time for Charlie Chan to meet Boris Karloff.
I'm kind of mixed about the film. As a mindless mysterious romp the film is gangbusters and a really enjoyable film. The trouble is for me is that this is one of the films that are more about being spectacular and flashy rather than being as solid a mystery. I'm being snobby, I know, after all who cares when you have both Oland and Karloff at the top of their game, but to me, the film feels like the story is secondary to the actors and the look and opera. It feels like a misdirection of sorts.
I'm nitpicking. In all honesty the film, other than Karloff's obviously dubbed singing, is first rate. I just wish there was a little more umph to the proceedings.
I'm kind of mixed about the film. As a mindless mysterious romp the film is gangbusters and a really enjoyable film. The trouble is for me is that this is one of the films that are more about being spectacular and flashy rather than being as solid a mystery. I'm being snobby, I know, after all who cares when you have both Oland and Karloff at the top of their game, but to me, the film feels like the story is secondary to the actors and the look and opera. It feels like a misdirection of sorts.
I'm nitpicking. In all honesty the film, other than Karloff's obviously dubbed singing, is first rate. I just wish there was a little more umph to the proceedings.