Review of The Hound of the Baskervilles (1939) by Simon I — 09 Mar 2009
1939 was a great year for Basil Rathbone. Not only did he star in[i] Son of Frankenstein[/i], but he began his string of Sherlock Holmes flicks that even now are as popular as ever. For anyone who enjoys mystery, suspense, good vs evil, or just a fun, intelligent film, The Hound of the Baskervilles is definitely worth a serious look.
The film stands out for many reasons. One of them is the classical atmosphere and its mysterious feel. The characters are all excellent and make great suspects in the case (especially John Carradine as the butler).
Another thing is that this is one of only two Holmes films that are placed in the Victorian time period, giving it a truly natural feel. Nigel Bruce is also very good as a competent Dr. Watson (before the funnier but less competent version was invented shortly thereafter).
The movie is the most true to its original source (Doyle's novel) as well. I think that its also more of a movie in itself rather than a "Sherlock Holmes" movie, which accounts for Rathbone being credited second under the charming leading man.
This review of The Hound of the Baskervilles (1939) was written by Simon I on 09 Mar 2009.
The Hound of the Baskervilles has generally received very positive reviews.
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