Retrospective: Mark of the Vampire (1934)

Ted Browning directs this movie; Guy Endore and Bernard Schubert wrote
it. The running time for this movie is 1 hour and released in 1934.


I was fortunate to find this classic horror film on the shelf at the
local TLA video store. "Mark of the Vampire" is an average horror
flick that I found to be very boring, putting me to sleep the first
time I watched it. The appearance of lead, and legendary actors, Bela
Lugosi, and Lionel Barrymore are what kept my interest. After watching
this movie a second time I finally got a grasp on this interesting
horror and murder mystery.

"Mark of the Vampire" is not a total waste. There are some very good
elements in this film such as some fairly good acting by its lead
actors Bela Lugosi, and Lionel Barrymore. The obeiance has the perfect
setting for a fairly done old horror movie along with its black and
white cinematography. And finally, while this movie doesn't take off
to a great start it is the finale that will surprise you.

The story begins when a man is found murdered in his castle, and all
of his blood has been drained. Many authorities are called in to solve
this mystery including a Detective, Author, and Scientist. When the
Scientist links the crime to a Vampire the vampire theory becomes
doubtful until the Vampire is seen roaming the castle, and kill more
members of this abode, at least we think they are dead until they rise
later. As this murder begins to unfold we see more, and more spooky
surprises in this creepy mansion. The killer is eventually exposed.The
suspect will surprise you.

Overall

"Mark of the Vampire" is a movie worth watching, horror movie
fans you may find this movie enjoyable. It's an edge of seat horror/
murder mystery to say the least. While Bela Lugosi and Lionel
Barrymore does not give us their best in this one, however they bring
us a sweet touch of wit and drama.

"Mark of the Vampire" scores 3 stars.

Reviewed by Lisa Smith
(c)2007