Horror Night
Horror Night

Movie spotlight

Horror Night

1938
Movie
0
Mandarin

After a flood, the Sea Charity Association sends Liu Hao Ming to a village to direct the burial of corpses. Hao Ming meets the singer Ruyun and her father there, and advises Ruyun not to sing a beautiful song, but to sing “The Beauty of Yu” instead, which Ruyun obeys to the full applause of the audience, but arouses the displeasure of a butcher, Sa-zuo, and others. When the flood comes again, the village people go to Shanghai to evacuate. Sa-zuo and the others ask Hao-ming for help, and Hao-ming leads them to an empty mansion to spend the night, where they run into Ruyun's father and learn that Ruyun has been separated. A female ghost haunts the house and they all escape from the house. Hao Ming does not see Ruyun's father and goes back to look for him, but he sees that the female ghost is Ruyun.

Insights

IMDb5.4/10
Director: James W. HorneGenres: Horror, Mystery, Crime

Plot Summary

A radio singer, Bob (Lanny Ross), becomes entangled in a murder mystery when he is framed for the death of a woman he barely knows. He must clear his name with the help of his friends before the police close in on him. The investigation leads him through a series of shadowy encounters and dangerous situations as he tries to uncover the real killer.

Critical Reception

Horror Night was a B-movie production that received a mixed-to-negative reception from critics upon its release, primarily for its predictable plot and low production values. However, it has gained a cult following over the years among fans of early horror and mystery films for its atmospheric qualities and campy charm.

What Reviewers Say

  • Competent but uninspired direction and a predictable script.

  • Relies on atmosphere and suspense typical of the era, but offers little originality.

  • A forgettable entry in the horror-mystery genre, saved only slightly by its cast.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce due to the film's age and limited release, but general sentiment points to it being a typical, somewhat formulaic B-movie of its time. Some viewers appreciate its historical value and the nostalgic feel, while others find it dated and lacking in genuine scares or compelling narrative.

Fun Fact

The film was originally intended to be a Universal Pictures 'Monogram Picture,' but ended up being released by Republic Pictures.

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