Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man (1943)
When Larry Talbot is accidentally revived, he seeks he notes of Dr. Frankenstein in hopes they can lead to a permanent cure for his condition.
The first Universal film to combine two of their iconic horror characters was going to star Lon Chaney Jr. in both title roles, but this was too difficult, so Bela Lugosi was brought in to play Frankenstein’s Monster for the first, and only, time in his career. Because of his advanced age and thick Hungarian accent, the Monster’s role in the film was limited more than the original script intended.
Chaney played Lenny in Of Mice and Men (1939) before his role as Larry Talbot in The Wolf Man (1941) led to a lifelong association with the horror genre. He’s the only man to portray all of the primary Universal monsters: The Wolf Man, Frankenstein’s Monster, The Mummy, and Count Dracula.
Curt Siodmak created many of the familiar tropes of the werewolf legend in The Wolf Man (1941), and because of his involvement, this schizophrenic film can’t decide which franchise it belongs to and suffers as a result.
Dawn of the Dead (2004)
When zombies attack, the survivors break into a shopping mall and hunker down.
I love Sarah Polley, but this film is a waste of her talent.
Zack Snyder’s unique visual style is not enough to elevate this uninspired remake. There are countless better films and TV shows featuring zombies.
I won’t watch this again and discourage anyone else from putting themselves through the misery.
Kissin’ Cousins (1964)
Air Force lieutenant Josh Morgan (Elvis Presley) has to convince his hillbilly cousins, the Tatums, to sell their land to the US government.
An Elvis movie released at the height of the British Invasion, it’s interesting only because he plays dual roles and one of them is a blonde (his natural hair color).
Elvis was an enjoyable presence but not a good actor. I occasionally enjoy watching his movies, but I never forget I’m watching Elvis.