There are a lot of very interesting things about this early horror film (1932). It was the first film version of H. G. Wells' novel ("The Island of Dr. Moreau"), which was first published in 1896. Wells intensely disliked the film; he was said to feel that the film relied too much on horror, rather than philosophy.
The film was banned repeatedly in Great Britain, not being approved for 26 years (in 1958). The censorship was due to Dr. Moreau saying, "Do you know what it means to feel like God?", as well as showing dissection of living beings.
"The natives are restless tonight", though slightly modified, is a saying that originated in this film.
It's not easy for me to be a fan of Charles Laughton. There's just something I find unsettling about him, but I have to admit he is very good in this film. And, his odd mustache and goatee are perfect to make him the mad scientist.
The greatest shortcoming in this film is the actor in the second lead -- Richard Arlen. I'm not very familiar with Arlen, but it seems to me that his acting is straight out silent films, where he got his Hollywood start. How he remained active in Hollywood for so many years, I don't know...at least based on this performance.
Unless you know what to look for, you won't recognize Bela Lugosi...the sayer of the law...in a heavy beard...just as well. The remaining actors do their jobs, but not much beyond.
The sets and special effects are quite impressive for 1932. Not so impressive is Dr. Moreau's knowledge of geology -- limestone from a volcano??? Or his ability with a whip...particularly in the later scenes when he is being brought to jungle justice.
But, it's a fine film, and well worth watching. Laughton, though unlikable, is brilliant here.
The film was banned repeatedly in Great Britain, not being approved for 26 years (in 1958). The censorship was due to Dr. Moreau saying, "Do you know what it means to feel like God?", as well as showing dissection of living beings.
"The natives are restless tonight", though slightly modified, is a saying that originated in this film.
It's not easy for me to be a fan of Charles Laughton. There's just something I find unsettling about him, but I have to admit he is very good in this film. And, his odd mustache and goatee are perfect to make him the mad scientist.
The greatest shortcoming in this film is the actor in the second lead -- Richard Arlen. I'm not very familiar with Arlen, but it seems to me that his acting is straight out silent films, where he got his Hollywood start. How he remained active in Hollywood for so many years, I don't know...at least based on this performance.
Unless you know what to look for, you won't recognize Bela Lugosi...the sayer of the law...in a heavy beard...just as well. The remaining actors do their jobs, but not much beyond.
The sets and special effects are quite impressive for 1932. Not so impressive is Dr. Moreau's knowledge of geology -- limestone from a volcano??? Or his ability with a whip...particularly in the later scenes when he is being brought to jungle justice.
But, it's a fine film, and well worth watching. Laughton, though unlikable, is brilliant here.