The Black Cat

4.2

The 1934 classic clunker marks the first pairing of horror legends Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff. Its unanimous appeal made it both Universal's highest grossing picture of the year and a certified horror classic. I am in the decided minority of viewers of which the film had little effect on. Its an atmospheric hour of silent film-style acting in a "talkie" picture.

There's a reason the two stars were known for their portrayal as monsters. When the actors are left with just dialogue, they flounder. It's understandable when considering that the film is of another time, where overacting was the norm. The ending is satisfying as is the well-known, chilling climax. But aside from the last five minutes, the film is weak and meandering.