"The Raven" of 1935 is arguably the second to greatest pairing of Horror icons Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff (the most memorable being "The Black Cat" of 1934). While both men are doubtlessly immortal deities of Horror cinema that most true Horror lovers would name as personal favorites, "The Raven" is primarily a Lugosi film. Karloff is also brilliant (as always) in his role, but his role in this film is not as significant as that of Lugosi, who dominates the screen with genius and insanity throughout the film. Comparable only to "White Zombie" of 1932 (still my choice for the greatest Lugosi film) and "Dracula" of 1931, this film proves what a unique screen presence Lugosi had. The great Bela plays Dr. Richard Vollin, an ingenious and eccentric doctor who is obsessed with Edgar Allan Poe. When a wealthy judge sees no other way to save his daughter (Irene Ware), a beautiful young dancer, he approaches Vollin for help, unaware that Poe is not the only obsession of the brilliant physician...
Bela Lugosi owns the film from the first second of his appearance. Lugosi's Dr. Vollin is, simply put, one of the most ingenious portrayals of diabolical insanity ever given, and that makes the film an absolute must-see for every Horror fan. Karloff is an additional reason to see this film, and even though his role could have been a bit bigger, he is masterly in the role of the sidekick. The rest of the performances are good as well, but, of course, they pale beside the greatness of the film's two stars. The cinematography is another great aspect about "The Raven". The film, which comes along with a brilliantly eerie classical score, is shot in a wonderfully eerie tone, which accentuates the film's genuine creepiness and brilliantly insane atmosphere. The most memorable aspect, however, remains the brilliant performance of Bela Lugosi. Roles like this one make Lugosi and immortal icon of cinema, and "The Raven" a must-see for every lover of film. Highly recommended!
5 out of 5 found this helpful