Bogart played gangsters, private eyes, romantic lead, but what about a vampire? You may be shocked, but he did in his only horror film of his career. In 1939 Bogart was in The Return of Doctor X. But make no mistake about it this really isn't a sequel to the 1932 film Doctor X.
Synopsis: In a bizarre but fascinating bit of casting, Humphrey Bogart stars as a vampire in his only horror film role. After a murderous doctor is executed, he is revived with human blood--and soon people with that blood type begin to disappear. When an eager reporter stumbles across a popular actress who was thought to be dead, he can't help noticing that her skin is unnaturally pale and that she keeps her face concealed beneath a long black veil. Suspecting that evil is afoot, he investigates the terrifying world of a psychotic doctor (Bogart) and is drawn into a series of unsolved murders.
While Doctor X plays for pure terror, Return of Doctor X has the 30s scare, but also plays for moments of comedy as well. This makes for a true fun experience. The film runs a mere 62 minutes so you can watch this classic in no time.
The acting is spot on with Wayne Morris, Rosemary Lane and Dennis Morgan as well as others in this film. But Humphrey Bogart's portrayal as Quesne is something like you have never seen from him before. I'm sure he was glad his career went the way it did, but I would have loved to see him in more horror roles.
Vincent Sherman makes his directorial debut with this film and what a wonderful debut it was. He would go on to direct such films as Mr. Skeffington (1944), Nora Prentiss (1947), and The Young Philadelphians (1959). He lived to the age of 99.
Warner Archive has transferred The Return of Doctor X for the first time on Blu-Ray with a 1080p it is presented I its original 1.37:1 aspect ratio. The audio track is a DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio. There is also the option for English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.
The new 4k restoration from the original camera negative is truly a thing of beauty. The picture is crisp and clean and there are no signs of damage to this print anywhere. The audio is clear as a bell with no audio anomalies. The return of Doctor X looks spectacular, it is hard to believe this film is 85 years old when you watch this film on Blu-ray.
In addition to a simply stunning new restoration. Warner Archive Collection added some very col bonus features to this Blu-ray disc. Take a look at what is included here.
* Archival commentary by director Vincent Sherman and Author/Film Historian Dr. Steve Haberman. A commentary that Sherman recorded at the age of 99.
* Classic WB cartoons:
- Doggone Modern (1939) Two curious puppies visit a model home with all the modern inventions. There is even a robot maid that sweeps up anything that touches the floor.
- Porky's Hotel (1939) A goat with gout checks into a hotel run by Porky for a rest. An annoying duck child prevents that rest with his endless talking and chasing after a fly with a hammer.
* Original Theatrical Trailer
When Warner Archive adds cartoons from the same year as the feature presentation it makes these Blu-rays a cinematic experience. I have heard of how theater goers would see newsreels, cartoons, trailers and then the feature movie. This gives you that experience right from the comfort of your couch.
The Return of Doctor X is a film all of its own. You don't need to see the first film to enjoy this one, but I highly suggest check out Doctor X as well. I cannot recommend this wonderfully offbeat 30s horror film on Blu-ray more. Head over to Moviezyng or Amazon and order your copy today. This one is tons of fun.
Out of 4 film reels (4 being the best) the Blu-ray of The Return of Doctor X receives.....
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