Fox Horror Classics (DVD, 2007, 3-Disc Set)

In the horror heyday, Universal reigned supreme. Warner's made several attempts but never quite gained the popularity in the 30's that Universal garnered with their legendary monster series. During the 40's Fox ventured into the genre with the perfect villain--Laird Cregar. Cregar was a 300 pound man and appears in all three movies.

THE LODGER, a a remake of the Hitchcock silent classic deals with a boarder who may or may not be the infamous Jack The Ripper. Cregar found a beautiful co-star in Linda Darnell.

THE UNDYING MONSTER is an interesting take on lycanctrophy. Fox was not known for it's monster makeup, therefore; the werewolf is not seen often and relies on eerie sets and terrific cinematography.

HANGOVER SQUARE is perhaps the most interesting from a psychological standpoint. When Cregar who plays a musician hears a sour note, he blacks out and becomes a homicidal manic.

Cregar's short career was hampered by his many demons. He longed to be a handsome, slim leading man while battling with his average looks and homosexuality. He dropped a hundred pounds for HANGOVER SQUARE by using illegal amphetamines that eventually lead to a heart attack and his untimely death at the age of 31. Cregar was not just your larger than life monster/villain. He played in many fine movies and showed a wonderful flair for comedy. A tragic end for someone who rose to quick fame then was forgotten.

These little known Fox gems have been given kid glove treatment--the transfers are very nice and clean giving the shadows a sharp menace that can not be found on VHS and the box set is attractively affordable.

If you love old movies and/or collect nostalgia, this is a nicely priced set that belongs in your collection alongside with the Universal and Warner Horror classic sets.

You'll find these hour plus movies as well made as the more famous monsters of filmdom.

Excellent product.