• There are three features that probably make this a top 5 of the year quality film. The performance are great- both Laughton in lead and a few key scenes by Legosi (mostly vocal work because there’s no mistaking that voice)—excellent. The narrative, plucked from the novel by HG Wells- it’s remarkable— and we have the photography by Karl Strauss. Strauss was the dp for sunrise
  • Haunting tale and character. Laughton’s arrogance is perfect for this character with the god complex. He wants someone to see his brilliance which also makes part of the narrative credible. I think it has influence on many films including Jurassic park with the Richard Attenborough character in all white
  • Jungle foliage abound makes for a very nice mise-en-scene—you can almost feel the sweat
  • Important use of stunningly photographed close-ups at several key points. Showing the abominations of surgery on the animals, hands, and faces. There’s a few of Legosi and one of Laughton looking directly into the camera
  • Film was banned in the UK
  • From universal—vey chilling- which an artistically rich period for that studio
  • “house of pain” and “the law” became terms in the public lexicon because of the film and book. Again, this is superior film narrative
  • A devastating close up montage of monsters walking up to the camera in the climax
  • Pitch perfect “don’t look back” finale with island on fire.
  • Must-See film- top 5 of the year quality