Part of this film takes place in Frankenstein's basement. But the problem here is that mostly this is bargain-basement Frankenstein in general. EXCEPT for some of the acting, and for the atmosphere which is first-rate.
Knowles is alright but is bargain basement Basil Rathbone/Colin Clive. He's capable but bland. Ms. Massey is a cut-rate Evelyn Ankers but again, is capable and has the added advantage of a German-tinged European accent. And poor old Lugosi is wasted in a badly conceived role (oh well I guess you can't have a Wolfman sequel at the Frankenstein castle without having Frankenstein's monster at least show up).
Chaney is first-rate and vividly recreates his immortal Lawrence Talbot. He is great and not to be missed.
Three huge pluses: Ouspenskaya, Dennis Hoey and of course Lionel Atwill were three of the best character actors who ever lived and keep this film watchable.
The early cemetery scenes are fine old horror atmosphere, and I really enjoyed the highly creative ice-bound catacomb scenes featuring the two unfortunate monsters.
Plot holes, bad editing, chopped grafted together story are the misses, so I can recommend this only with reservations, mainly for the occasional streaks of brilliance to be found here.
And yes, horror fans will love it.
Knowles is alright but is bargain basement Basil Rathbone/Colin Clive. He's capable but bland. Ms. Massey is a cut-rate Evelyn Ankers but again, is capable and has the added advantage of a German-tinged European accent. And poor old Lugosi is wasted in a badly conceived role (oh well I guess you can't have a Wolfman sequel at the Frankenstein castle without having Frankenstein's monster at least show up).
Chaney is first-rate and vividly recreates his immortal Lawrence Talbot. He is great and not to be missed.
Three huge pluses: Ouspenskaya, Dennis Hoey and of course Lionel Atwill were three of the best character actors who ever lived and keep this film watchable.
The early cemetery scenes are fine old horror atmosphere, and I really enjoyed the highly creative ice-bound catacomb scenes featuring the two unfortunate monsters.
Plot holes, bad editing, chopped grafted together story are the misses, so I can recommend this only with reservations, mainly for the occasional streaks of brilliance to be found here.
And yes, horror fans will love it.