Year: 1932
Director: Karl Freund
Country: US
Language: English
Boris Karloff was virtually unknown just two years prior, but with the release of 1931's Frankenstein he had become a household name. So known was he, that all Universal had to advertise was "KARLOFF....'The Mummy'." Originally The Mummy had no connection to Egypt at all, but screenwriter John L. Balderston used his experiences in Egypt and love of ancient history, to influenced a change in the setting and plot of the film.
A living mummy (Boris Karloff) stalks the beautiful woman (Zita Johann) he believes is the reincarnation of his lover
Made during the right place and right time, The Mummy was released soon after discovery of Pharaoh Tutankahmen's tomb, when the rest of the world was curious about what kind of ancient curse it might contain. With little more than dry-looking make-up, a doleful stare, and that wonderful, lisping voice, Karloff created a monster that will endure for generations. The Mummy is a menacing, yet has enough human motivations to keep him from becoming one-dimensional. The make-up design by Jack Pierce make-up was considered so outstanding at the time that "Hollywood Filmograph" journal honored him with a special award which was presented at a ceremony by Karloff himself.
Less a typical horror film than a Gothic romance with an Egyptian setting, The Mummy relies primarily upon atmosphere for impact--and this it has in abundance. The film posses a darkly romantic dream-like quality that will slowly soak in your mind throughout its run-time. Similar to Frankenstein, this picture has remarkable sets, excellent cinematography, an intriguing score and a consistent pace. It might be slower than your average film, but it's certainly purposeful.
The Mummy may not be the best film that Universal Horror has to offer, but it's no spring chicken either. It's quite engaging, making it difficult to turn away from even during scenes when the monster doesn't appear. The film flows naturally and inevitably, with every scene building upon the one before it. It is worth seeing at least once.
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