Chandu the Magician
Frank Chandler has gone to India to master and perfect his magical powers of hypnosis and other mind altering techniques. Frank has kept these powers from his family when he returns home he finds his family and love interest have been kidnapped by the evil Roxor played by Lugosi. Franks brother in law Robert Regent is an inventor and his latest creation is a death ray but dont be put off by the name it obviously is a good type of death ray created with only the good of humanity in mind but Ruxor wont be fooled by good intentions and he intends on using the death ray to enslave the world and be its master. Only Frank can save his family and the world using his magical powers and so exposing himself as Chandu the Magician.
This film has it all action,adventure,comedy,great special effect and fantastic set design. From start to finish this film is fast paced with action and suspense lurking around every corner. Chandu can get inside his enemies heads and make them do what ever he wishes or make things appear that are not there like seeing double of him so he can distract them to gain entry to places he should not be. Chandu also plays tricks on his side kick who is a bit too fond of a drink so now every time he touches a drop of alcohol a small man appears to scare him off the booze. Ruxor has his own army of brain washed followers that obey his every command.
All around the acting is solid but Edmund Lowe just does not have much charisma as Chandu. The same can not be said for Lugosi who once again commands the attention of the viewer everytime he is on the screen. Lugosi is not creepy or sinister like in the films we have seen up to this point but he plays the role exactly the way you would expect a man who wants to rule the world acting, over the top and larger than life. Along with the crazed look in his eyes that he uses to great effect he also has a look of disgust on his face when dealing with his enemies he is not trying to scare or intimidate his victim he he showing them that they are nothing to him. He is not trying to win the girl he just wants to rule the world and they are all uninvited guests in a world that rightfully belongs to him and him alone.
Chandu The Magician is just pure entertainment its a fantastic Sunday afternoon film turn out the lights close the curtains and brace yourself for a good old fashioned thrill ride. Over the course of our journey we will revisit Chandu once again but next time Lugosi will take over in the title role.
Film 8/10
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