Review of The Devil Bat (1940) by Kevin R — 13 Nov 2010

This must be the bat's night off.

A scientist that has specialized in making fragrances for a perfume company is fed up with the lack of credit and funding he's received from his employer. The scientist genetically creates large bats that will attack the wearers of a new aftershave he has created. The scientist begins randomly spraying individuals he does not like with his new perfume and then unleashes his bats upon them.

"You will be even greater than your unfortunate predecessor.".

Jean Yarbrough, director of Hillbillys in a Haunted House, Saintly Sinners, Footsteps in the Night, and Hot Shots (1956), delivers The Devil Bat. The storyline for this picture is interesting but nothing special overall. The plot and premise for this film is suspect but the acting is better than average. The cast includes Bela Lugosi, Suzanne Kaaren, and Dave O'Brien.

"Whoever heard of a mouse big enough to kill a man?".

This is another gem that aired during this past Halloween season that I needed to see since it starred Bela Lugosi. This film did have a few redeeming qualities but overall was disappointing. The special effects were mediocre and the rationale for the scientist's behavior could have been better presented. This is only worth seeing if you are a fan of Lugosi or old school horror movies.

"Have there been any circuses around here lately?".

Grade: C+.