The middle of this Republic programmer has among it some of the most sinister and horrifying dialog in the history of horror films. Erich von Stroheim gets to recite a speech that will have you gripped to the edge of your seat. He is a well respected doctor and scientist who only takes the patients recommended to him by other doctors, but I'd turn that offer down even if it was my only alternative. Today, there are many names for the type of mental illness he has, but really, it all comes down to pure, undeniable madness. He's a total perfectionist and a genius, and in this case, he doesn't just have a touch of madness; he has an entire brain filled with it.
In love with Harriett Russell who chose to marry a close medical colleague of his (John Bohn), he goes completely bonkers when Russell begs him to operate on her husband. To say that the operation fails is an understatement; it doesn't go awry, it goes eerie. Von Stroheim's assistant (Dwight Frye) realizes something is wrong and makes the mistake of confronting him. The story is gripping but full of plot holes. But I just dare you to take your eyes off of von Stroheim. He goes between being calm, cool and collected to totally hammy, and in his big speech reminds me slightly of that British star of mayhem and murder, Tod Slaughter. How it concludes really might have you getting the willies, although certain aspects are quite funny too.
In love with Harriett Russell who chose to marry a close medical colleague of his (John Bohn), he goes completely bonkers when Russell begs him to operate on her husband. To say that the operation fails is an understatement; it doesn't go awry, it goes eerie. Von Stroheim's assistant (Dwight Frye) realizes something is wrong and makes the mistake of confronting him. The story is gripping but full of plot holes. But I just dare you to take your eyes off of von Stroheim. He goes between being calm, cool and collected to totally hammy, and in his big speech reminds me slightly of that British star of mayhem and murder, Tod Slaughter. How it concludes really might have you getting the willies, although certain aspects are quite funny too.