The Ape Man
The Ape Man

The Ape Man

1943Movie64 minEnglish

A scientist is turned into an ape man.

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Insights

IMDb4.9/10
Director: William BeaudineGenres: Horror, Comedy, Mystery

Plot Summary

A dying millionaire, Professor Drury, is experimenting with a serum that will grant eternal life. His greedy doctor, Dr. Fleming, attempts to steal the serum for himself, but accidentally transforms Drury into a hideous ape-like creature. The ape-man then escapes and begins a reign of terror, killing anyone who gets in his way.

Critical Reception

The Ape Man is widely regarded as one of the most nonsensical and unintentionally hilarious films of the 1940s. While Bela Lugosi's performance is often cited as a highlight, the film's low budget, bizarre plot, and weak special effects have led to its cult status as a "so bad it's good" movie. It's generally panned by critics but enjoyed by fans of campy horror.

What Reviewers Say

  • Bela Lugosi delivers a campy, yet dedicated performance.
  • The plot is nonsensical and filled with unintentional comedy.
  • Despite its flaws, it has achieved cult status for its sheer absurdity.

Google audience: Audience reception is difficult to gauge due to limited widespread access and discussion on Google platforms. However, for those who have seen it, the film is typically discussed in terms of its camp value and Bela Lugosi's presence, rather than its cinematic merits.

Fun Fact

The film's director, William Beaudine, was known for his prolific output and often worked on low-budget films, earning him the nickname 'One-Take Beaudine'.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Well there was a war on, but even so - it's still a really rather daft sci-fi story that doesn't really do anyone any favours. "Brewster" (Bela Lugosi) and his pal "Randall" (Henry Hall) have been carrying out some experiments that have gon...
John Chard

John Chard

Bela Goes Ape! William Beaudine directs and Bela Lugosi stars in this cheapie horror that finds Lugosi as a mad scientist who has transformed himself into an ape man hybrid. Cue more mad science as Lugosi and his pet gorilla go on a kill...