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.
[…] Island of Lost Souls– Kenton […]