The Ape Man (1943)

Bela Goes Ape!

William Beaudine directs and Bela Lugosi stars in this cheapie horror that finds Lugosi as a mad scientist who has transformed himself into an ape man hybrid. Cue more mad science as Lugosi and his pet gorilla go on a killing spree in search of the spinal fluid that may cure Lugosi of his ills...

It's not to be taken seriously, of course, since it's all very goofy and over melodramatic. Lugosi does turn in some genuine moments of acting that hold the attention, whilst an array of energetic characters buzz in and out of the story. The science is nutty and the means and motives of Lugosi's initial experiments are left floating up where Dandelo the cat would eventually wind up. But it's a short piece that doesn't hang around to annoy or dull the senses, it's not very good, but at least it isn't boring with it. 4/10

Well there was a war on, but even so - it's still a really rather daft sci-fi story that doesn't really do anyone any favours. "Brewster" (Bela Lugosi) and his pal "Randall" (Henry Hall) have been carrying out some experiments that have gone a bit awry leaving the former man a little more hirsute than he'd like. It seems the only cure is to inject spinal fluid into his body, but that has to come from a live victim and his pal isn't so keen on committing murder. That poses quite a quandary for "Brewster" and his sister - the scene-stealing, squealing, Minerva Urecal, especially as his search to procure this serum starts to attract the attention of the police and two pesky reporters, one of whom "Billie" (Louise Currie) might also end up a target for his needle. It's all set in a large house with a secret basement, an extra big ape and Lugosi runs around half the time reminding me of Robert Newton. It's cheap, cheerful and it's very basic nature actually adds to the enjoyment as it shows off the skills of the make-up artiste in the worst possible light. It's tongue is firmly in it's cheek and taken in that spirit, it's really quite fun.