It’s an interesting time Universal, they are about to embark on a revival of their classic monster films, evolving into a shared universe. Their first outing will be The Mummy starring Tom Cruise, so what better reason to re-release the numerous Mummy movies into one Blu-Ray collection. Starburst gave it a look…
The collection includes The Mummy’ Hand (1940), in which two archaeologists pit their wits against a high priest and his mummy who are set out to protect the tomb of an ancient princess. Next up, The Mummy’s Tomb (1942) where Lon Chaney Jr. takes up the role of the mummy to take revenge against the events of the previous film. Meanwhile, The Mummy’s Ghost (1944) sees Lon Chaney reprise the role of the mummy and let loose when his master’s desires a young woman with a resemblance to an Egyptian princess. Next, The Mummy’s Curse (1944) makes use of stock footage from previous films to tell the story of the mummy’s revival in a Louisiana water project. And finally, Abbott & Costello Meet The Mummy (1955) see the classic comedy duo meet the eponymous antagonist in Cairo.
This reviewer’s response to these films is very dependent on what the viewer is trying to get from such films. Are these films classics? By no means! Are these films culturally significant? Possibly. Are these films in some places so bad that they’re actually quite good for an avid cult viewer? Definitely. They don’t have the selling prowess of the original classic Mummy film starring Boris Karloff, but should definitely not be ignored. And the transfer to Blu-Ray, has given them a much needed clean up and polish. Yet, they will not have a widespread appeal it must be said. Definitely one for the aficionados and those interested in the history of film.
THE MUMMY: COMPLETE LEGACY COLLECTION / CERT: / DIRECTORS: KARL FREUND, CHRISTY CABANNE, REGINALD LE BORG, LESLIE GOODWINS, HAROLD YOUNG, CHARLES LAMONT / SCREENPLAY: GRIFFIN JAY, HENRY SUCHER, JOHN L. BALDERSTON, LEON ABRAMS, NEIL P. VARNICK, LEE LOEB / STARRING: LON CHANEY JR., GEORGE ZUCCO, DICK FORAN, WALLACE FORD, FRANK REICHER, KURT KATCH / RELEASE DATE: 8TH MAY
