An attempt to recreate the success of the classic Universal horror films of the 40s, with a regular director from that time (Reginald Le Borg) and many of the famous stars (Rathbone, Lugosi, Lon Chaney Jnr, John Carradine). It has the benefit of a 19th century setting, which makes it feel classier, and a perfectly respectable mad scientist plot - Rathbone performs brain experiments on people in order to help save his wife.
It's not a classic and could have done with a more interesting pair of juveniles, and some extra vigour in the handling - especially around the middle where it sags. But I enjoyed it - Basil Rathbone gives an expertly professional performance (he disappears for far too long in this and should have been centre stage the whole time) Akim Tamiroff is fun as always as Rathbone's assistant; Lon Chaney registers strongly as a one time doctor rendered into... well, Lon Chaney by Rathbone's experiments.
Its touching to see Bela Lugosi in a nothing part, really - as Rathbone's mute butler (another butler role for Lugosi and he doesn't have any lines). John Carradine has a similarly small but flashier role as a crazy, plus there's Tor Johnson to add to the fun. The climax is rushed but there's some decent shocks as the two heroes go through Rathbone's basement and encounter various creepy creatures.
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