Mark Of The Vampire (1935) *** [Browning/Barrymore Double Feature Pt. 1]

There's a bit too much fumbling about and goofiness than necessary that keep it from being a classic, but when the vampires (played with aplomb by Bela Lugosi and Carroll Borland) are on screen, Tod Browning's Mark Of The Vampire (1935) is a treat. The short running time (just one hour) aids the film in distilling the gothic horror picture down to its essence—that of shadows and suspense. The atmosphere of the movie comes alive courtesy of master James Wong Howe's gorgeous cinematography—that man could create a mood! I can't decide how much I like the comedic twist ending but it's certainly subversive and original.

Tod Browning Feature Films Ranked