“The Mummy” (1932) starring Boris Karloff / Z-View

The Mummy (1932)

Director:  Karl Freund

Screenplay:  John L. Balderston; story by Nina Wilcox Putnam, Richard Schayer

Stars: Boris Karloff, Zita Johann, David Manners, Noble Johnson, Leonard Mudie and Edward Van Sloan.

Tagline: A love that defied time drives a beautiful girl to her doom!

The Plot…

An archaeological expedition discovers the ancient burial chamber of Imhotep.  Through a study of the mummifed body and writings left in the chamber, it is learned that a curse was placed on Imhotep. Although wrapped in the traditional cloth of the dead, Imhotep was buried alive!  Placed with Imhotep was the Scroll of Thoth.  The scroll was believed to hold secrets that return the dead to life.

When one of the archaeologists reads the scroll, he is driven insane as he witnesses the resurrection of Imhotep.  Imohotep escapes.

Years pass.  Imhotep has worked his way into modern society. He is now Ardath Bey, an expert in ancient Egyptian history.  When Imhotep/Bey meets Helen Grosvenor he falls in love.  Imohotep believes Helen to be the reincarnation of the Princess he dared to love… and that cost him his life.  Determined to have her at any cost, Imhotep plans to kill, mummify and revive her.  Then they will both be immortal.

How do you stop something that has beaten death?

Thoughts (beware of spoilers)…

The Mummy was inspired by the discovery of Pharaoh Tutankahmen’s tomb.  There allegedly was a curse on anyone who broke the burial chamber seal.

Boris Karloff, who became a big star after Frankenstein, was cast as the lead for The Mummy.  Although a star, his face was again hidden by make-up.

The Mummy (1932) rates 3 of 5 stars.