The 40 Best Boris Karloff Movies
1Colin Clive, Mae Clarke, John BolesFor Fans Of: Classic Horror, Gothic Fiction, Science Fiction
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Witness the birth of a horror legend as Boris Karloff delivers an astounding performance as the misunderstood monster, bringing both terror and heartache to the screen. This timeless classic, directed by James Whale, showcases Karloff's ability to evoke sympathy beneath layers of makeup and silently convey complex emotions. His nuanced portrayal turned Frankenstein's Monster into a poignant figure in cinema history, making this film an essential watch for any Karloff fan.Embarking on a tale of horror and science, Frankenstein is a movie adaptation of Mary Shelley's classic novel. Dr. Victor Frankenstein (Colin Clive) is an ambitious scientist obsessed with the idea of creating life. He builds a creature (Boris Karloff), assembled from exhumed bodies, in his laboratory. However, the creature's grotesque appearance belies its gentle nature - inciting fear and violence in those it encounters. The film, directed by James Whale, won significant acclaim for its groundbreaking makeup and special effects. This chilling narrative explores themes of ambition, responsibility, and the consequences of playing God.More Frankenstein
- #153 of 396 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
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2Boris Karloff, Elsa Lanchester, Colin CliveFor Fans Of: Classic Horror, Gothic Fiction, Romance, Science Fiction
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Reprising his iconic role as Frankenstein's Monster, Boris Karloff shines even brighter in this critically acclaimed sequel that elevates the original tale with a perfect blend of horror and dark humor. Under James Whale's masterful direction once more, Karloff demonstrates his range beyond fear-inducing menace by injecting moments of vulnerability and pathos into his character's desperate search for companionship. Bride of Frankenstein solidifies its place among the best classic horror films while showcasing the depth and talent of Boris Karloff.Bride of Frankenstein unfolds as a sequel to the original 1931 Frankenstein film. The movie sees Dr. Henry Frankenstein (Colin Clive) once more embroiled in his monstrous pursuits, coerced by his former mentor, Dr. Pretorius (Ernest Thesiger). Their objective is audacious: creating a companion for the Creature (Boris Karloff). As they delve into their grim task, Elsa Lanchester portrays both Mary Shelley and the titular Bride with aplomb. This 1935 horror classic, directed by James Whale, remains a touchstone of the genre, blending gothic dread and tragic pathos with remarkable cinematography and groundbreaking special effects. Notable for its iconic characters and eerie atmosphere, it's a testament to Hollywood's Golden Age of horror.- #216 of 396 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
- #34 of 117 onThe Best Horror Movie Sequels
- #7 of 15 on15 Horror Movie Villains Whose Bad Acts Were Motivated By Love
3Boris Karloff, Bela Lugosi, Henry DaniellFor Fans Of: Classic Horror, Thriller
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Set against a backdrop of grave robbing and illicit dealings, The Body Snatcher is a chilling tale driven by Boris Karloff's eerie yet captivating performance as Cabman John Gray. A sinister character who haunts every frame with quiet danger, Gray allows the actor to exhibit his brilliant ability to command attention without speaking – proving that sometimes actions speak louder than words in creating unforgettable performances. Directed by Robert Wise, this atmospheric thriller expertly showcases why Boris Karloff remains a tour de force in cinematic villainy.Dr. Toddy MacFarlane (Henry Daniell) needs cadavers for his medical experiments, ultimately intended to treat a young disabled girl. However, they are not easy to come by, so he enlists the help of taxi driver John Gray (Boris Karloff) and his assistant, Joseph (Bela Lugosi), to unearth bodies from the cemetery. When Donald (Russell Wade), Dr. MacFarlane's assistant, recognizes one of the corpses Gray delivers, the true source of the bodies is called into question.
4Boris Karloff, Zita Johann, David MannersFor Fans Of: Classic Horror, Supernatural Horror, Mythology
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Wrapped in mystery and ancient folklore, The Mummy offers up another opportunity for fans to see Boris Karloff at his bone-chilling best as the titular character, Imhotep. With his unsettling gaze and commanding presence, Karloff manages to bring an air of menace to every scene he occupies – even when buried beneath layers of gauze. This atmospheric horror classic from director Karl Freund stands as a testament to Boris Karloff's talent for creating iconic monsters that withstand the test of time.A team of British archaeologists led by Sir Joseph Whemple (Arthur Byron) discover the mummified remains of the ancient Egyptian prince Imhotep (Boris Karloff), along with the legendary scroll of Thoth. When one of the archaeologists recites the scroll aloud, Imhotep returns to life, but escapes. Several years later, Imhotep has taken on the guise of a wealthy man, as he searches Egypt for his lost love, who he believes has been reincarnated as the lovely Helen Grosvenor (Zita Johann).More The Mummy- #123 of 396 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
- #8 of 16 onThe Most Terrifying Figures In Horror With The Lowest Kill Counts
- #45 of 87 onThe Best Halloween Movies For Kids
5Boris Karloff, Bela Lugosi, David MannersFor Fans Of: Classic Horror, Psychosocial Horror, Mystery
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Fuelled by tension and dread, The Black Cat sees Boris Karloff team up with fellow Gothic icon Bela Lugosi for an unforgettable exploration of dark desires and twisted revenge in this Edgar Allan Poe-inspired chiller. As the enigmatic Hjalmar Poelzig, Karloff's magnetic performance is chillingly captivating in its icy detachment, leaving viewers entranced by each sinister revelation. Director Edgar G. Ulmer expertly crafts a stylish and haunting experience that showcases why this collaboration between two horror legends remains a must-see for fans of either actor.Not to be confused with the 1941 version also featuring Bela Lugosi. The Black Cat is a 1934 horror film that became Universal Pictures' biggest box office hit of the year. The picture was the first of eight movies to pair actors Béla Lugosi and Boris Karloff. Edgar G. Ulmer directed the film, which was also notable for being one of the first movies with an almost continuous music score. Lugosi also appears in a 1941 film with the same title.
6Basil Rathbone, Boris Karloff, Bela LugosiFor Fans Of: Classic Horror, Gothic Fiction, Science Fiction
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Returning once more to his most famous role in Son of Frankenstein, Boris Karloff proves that three times is indeed a charm with another memorable turn as the misunderstood creature seeking refuge from humanity's cruelty. Though it marks his final appearance as Frankenstein's Monster, Karloff continues to evoke sympathy within the monster's tortured existence while displaying subtle nuances that keep audiences enthralled until the very end. Don't miss this opportunity to witness one more chapter in a legendary portrayal that helped define horror cinema for generations.Baron Wolf von Frankenstein (Basil Rathbone) is determined to prove the legitimacy of his father's scientific work, thus rescuing the family name from disgrace. With the help of Ygor (Bela Lugosi), a grave robber, Wolf successfully reanimates the monster (Boris Karloff) his father originally brought back from the dead. But when several villagers are killed mysteriously, Wolf must find the culprit in order to vindicate his creation, or face the possibility that he may be responsible.More Son of Frankenstein- #107 of 164 onThe Best Movie Sequels Ever Made
- #9 of 20 on20 Universal Monster Movies, Ranked By Iconic Thrills
- #31 of 80 onList of 75+ Famous Monster Movies, Ranked
7Boris Karloff, June Foray, Hal SmithFor Fans Of: Family, Animation, Fantasy, Comedy, Christmas Stories
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Showcasing his incredible versatility as an actor, Boris Karloff lends both his voice and narration talents to this beloved animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss' classic children’s story about discovering the true spirit of the holiday season. As the curmudgeonly Grinch, Karloff's vocal performance is infused with delightful wickedness and warmth, proving that his talents extend far beyond the realm of horror. A timeless classic for all ages, this heartwarming tale allows Karloff to shine in a different light while still enchanting viewers with his unmistakable charisma.In an enchanting adaptation of the beloved children's book, Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! brings to life the tale of a green, misanthropic creature on a mission to ruin the festive season for the residents of Whoville. The show expertly weaves together elements of family, humor, and heartwarming redemption, earning it multiple award nominations. With the Grinch portrayed by the talented Boris Karloff, the audience is taken on a journey of self-discovery and the true meaning of Christmas spirit. To sum it up, one can expect to be charmed by the colorful characters and the unforgettable message this classic story delivers.- #93 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #26 of 447 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #4 of 126 onThe Best Christmas Movies Of All Time
8Boris Karloff, Lorna Gray, Dick CurtisFor Fans Of: Crime, Science Fiction, Drama, Thriller
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: As a brilliant yet misunderstood scientist bent on revenge in The Man They Could Not Hang, Boris Karloff delivers a complex portrayal of a man driven to madness – keeping audiences riveted throughout this chilling tale of obsession and retribution. With a captivating mix of intelligence and unhinged fury, Karloff's performance demonstrates his ability to bring depth and nuance to even the most sinister characters, making this thrilling crime drama a must-see for any fan of the legendary actor.The Man They Could Not Hang is a low-budget horror film produced by Columbia Pictures, directed by Nick Grinde, and starring Boris Karloff as Dr. Henryk Savaard. The supporting cast features Lorna Gray and Ann Doran.
9Boris Karloff, Melvyn Douglas, Charles LaughtonFor Fans Of: Supernatural, Comedy, Classic Horror
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Combining humor and horror within its foreboding walls, The Old Dark House offers viewers an early glimpse into Boris Karloff's innate talent for creating memorable characters despite limited dialogue or screen time. As Morgan – a mute butler with menacing features – Karloff displays his keen ability to convey menace without uttering a single word, holding viewers' attention through every eerie encounter. Directed by Frankenstein helmer James Whale, this atmospheric thriller provides another compelling reason to explore the vast filmography of one of cinema's most talented actors.Driving through a brutal thunderstorm in Wales, three travelers take refuge in an eerie house owned by the Femm family. Reluctantly admitted by Horace Femm (Ernest Thesiger), the three sit down to a strange dinner. Horace is neurotic; mute butler Morgan (Boris Karloff) is an alcoholic; and Horace's sister, Rebecca (Eva Moore), raves about chastity. When the storm brings in an industrialist and chorus girl Gladys DuCane Perkins (Lilian Bond), Morgan's lust and Rebecca's ire are ignited.More The Old Dark House- #368 of 396 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
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10Boris Karloff, Tim O'Kelly, Nancy HsuehFor Fans Of: Thriller, Drama, Crime, Psychological Horror
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: In one of his final roles before retiring from acting, Boris Karloff delivers one last masterful performance as Byron Orlok – an aging horror icon facing both personal demons and real-life terror in Peter Bogdanovich's directorial debut Targets. A fascinating exploration of fame, fear, and the changing face of horror, this film allows Karloff to reflect on his storied career while proving that he remains a formidable presence in any genre. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the legendary actor's swan song, a poignant reminder of the indelible mark Boris Karloff has left on cinema history.After unhinged Vietnam vet Bobby Thompson (Tim O'Kelly) kills his wife and mother, he goes on a brutal shooting spree. Starting at an oil refinery, he evades the police and continues his murderous outing at a drive-in movie theater, where Byron Orlock (Boris Karloff), a retiring horror film icon, is making a promotional appearance. Before long, Orlock, a symbol of fantastical old-fashioned scares, faces off against Thompson, a remorseless psychopath rooted in a harsh modern reality.
11Boris Karloff, Anna Lee, Billy HouseFor Fans Of: Historical Drama, Psychological horror, Gothic Fiction
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Plunge into the depths of madness with Boris Karloff's chilling performance as the sinister Master George Sims, who rules over an 18th-century asylum with an iron fist in this atmospheric thriller. Directed by Mark Robson and produced by horror legend Val Lewton, Bedlam showcases Karloff's ability to embody pure evil while maintaining a magnetic screen presence that keeps viewers entranced until the shocking finale. This dark and brooding tale is a must-see for fans seeking another striking example of Karloff's immense talents.After getting a glimpse of the conditions at the St. Mary's of Bethlehem Asylum, known as "Bedlam," Nell Bowen (Anna Lee) is concerned that the patients are being mistreated. When she seeks to better the situation, the head of St. Mary's, George Sims (Boris Karloff), uses his political savvy to have Nell committed. Being within St. Mary's does not deter Nell, however, and she starts to turn the patients against Sims in a bid to violently oust him from power.
12Boris Karloff, Bela Lugosi, Ian WolfeFor Fans Of: Classic Horror, Gothic Fiction, Adventure
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Reuniting horror heavyweights Boris Karloff and Bela Lugosi, The Raven delivers a suspenseful tale inspired by Edgar Allan Poe's famous poem – pitting these icons against each other in a battle of wits and wills. As Dr. Richard Vollin, Karloff exudes menace and cunning, crafting an unforgettable character that stands among his best work in the genre. Don't miss this thrilling opportunity to see two legends share the screen once more, elevating each other's performances in every twisted scene.The Raven is a 1935 American horror film directed by Lew Landers and starring Boris Karloff and Béla Lugosi. The picture revolves around Edgar Allan Poe's famous homonymous poem, featuring Lugosi as a Poe-obsessed mad surgeon with a torture chamber in his basement and Karloff as a fugitive murderer desperately on the run from the police. Lugosi had the lead role, but Karloff received top billing, using only his last name. Almost three decades later, Karloff also appeared in another film with the same title, Roger Corman's 1963 comedy The Raven with Vincent Price, Peter Lorre and Jack Nicholson. Aside from the title and references to the poem, the two films bear no resemblance to one another.
13Boris Karloff, Ellen Drew, Marc CramerFor Fans Of: Supernatural Horror, War Time, Folklore
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: This classic television show is a must-watch for any Lucille Ball fan, as it showcases her unparalleled comedic timing and physicality that made her a household name. With her iconic red hair and unforgettable facial expressions, Ball's performance as the lovable yet mischievous Lucy Ricardo solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in American comedy. Alongside her real-life husband Desi Arnaz, who played Ricky Ricardo, the duo's on-screen chemistry and hilarious antics remain a timeless testament to their talent.Gen. Nikolas Pherides (Boris Karloff) takes leave from the 1912 Balkan War to visit a small island in Greece, where his wife is buried. While there, a plague breaks out -- and along with an American reporter (Marc Cramer) and several other travelers, Pherides is forced to stay when quarantine is declared. Soon, locals and foreigners alike succumb to the influence of Madame Kyra (Helene Thimig), who accuses a nurse (Ellen Drew) of being a vampire and the true cause of the recent deaths.More Isle of the Dead- #9 of 45 onThe Best Horror Movies About Deserted Islands
- #23 of 50 onThe 50 Best Horror Movies Of The '40s, Ranked
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14Boris Karloff, Lewis Stone, Karen MorleyFor Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Mystery, Horror
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: This classic television show is a must-watch for any Lucille Ball fan, as it showcases her unparalleled comedic timing and physicality that made her a household name. With her iconic red hair and unforgettable facial expressions, Ball's performance as the lovable yet mischievous Lucy Ricardo solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in American comedy. Alongside her real-life husband Desi Arnaz, who played Ricky Ricardo, the duo's on-screen chemistry and hilarious antics remain a timeless testament to their talent.The sinister Dr. Fu Manchu (Boris Karloff) and his equally devious daughter, Fah Lo See (Myrna Loy), clash with a British expedition that has set out in search of Genghis Khan's tomb. Working under the guidance of Sir Nayland Smith (Lewis Stone), the English team finds ancient relics -- a mask and a sword. While the group seeks the artifacts for their archeological value, Fu Manchu and Fah Lo See regard them as mystical items that they can use to gain unstoppable power.
15Paul Muni, Ann Dvorak, George RaftFor Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Action, Gangster
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: This classic television show is a must-watch for any Lucille Ball fan, as it showcases her unparalleled comedic timing and physicality that made her a household name. With her iconic red hair and unforgettable facial expressions, Ball's performance as the lovable yet mischievous Lucy Ricardo solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in American comedy. Alongside her real-life husband Desi Arnaz, who played Ricky Ricardo, the duo's on-screen chemistry and hilarious antics remain a timeless testament to their talent.Key lieutenant of South Side Chicago crime boss Johnny Lovo (Osgood Perkins), Tony Camonte (Paul Muni) is an ambitious and reckless gangster who ignores warnings not to mess with Irish gangs on the North Side. When the North Side retaliates, Tony essentially massacres them, leaving him on top of the world. Worried about Tony's overconfidence, however, Johnny orders him killed, but this also backfires, and Tony finds himself even closer to becoming king of the city.More Scarface- #177 of 190 onThe Best Movies For Men
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- #446 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
16Boris Karloff, Bela Lugosi, Beulah BondiFor Fans Of: Sci-fi, Horror, Gothic Fiction
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: This classic television show is a must-watch for any Lucille Ball fan, as it showcases her unparalleled comedic timing and physicality that made her a household name. With her iconic red hair and unforgettable facial expressions, Ball's performance as the lovable yet mischievous Lucy Ricardo solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in American comedy. Alongside her real-life husband Desi Arnaz, who played Ricky Ricardo, the duo's on-screen chemistry and hilarious antics remain a timeless testament to their talent.The Invisible Ray is a 1936 American science fiction film starring Boris Karloff and Béla Lugosi as Dr. Felix Benet that was released by Universal Pictures.
17Boris Karloff, Marian Marsh, Robert AllenFor Fans Of: Mystery, Classic Horror, Thriller
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: This classic television show is a must-watch for any Lucille Ball fan, as it showcases her unparalleled comedic timing and physicality that made her a household name. With her iconic red hair and unforgettable facial expressions, Ball's performance as the lovable yet mischievous Lucy Ricardo solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in American comedy. Alongside her real-life husband Desi Arnaz, who played Ricky Ricardo, the duo's on-screen chemistry and hilarious antics remain a timeless testament to their talent.In Tirol in the late 19th century, when twins are born to the ruling Baron de Berghman, the youngest, Anton, is sent away due to a family legend that the youngest twin will kill the oldest. Two decades later, the elder twin, Gregor (Boris Karloff) arranges for Anton's (also Karloff) return so that the brothers may rule their country jointly. Upon Anton's arrival, mysterious disappearances and murders occur -- and when the local peasants accuse Gregor, he assumes his more popular twin's identity.
18Boris Karloff, Lon Chaney, J. Carrol NaishFor Fans Of: Classic Horror, Sci-fi, Supernatural
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: This classic television show is a must-watch for any Lucille Ball fan, as it showcases her unparalleled comedic timing and physicality that made her a household name. With her iconic red hair and unforgettable facial expressions, Ball's performance as the lovable yet mischievous Lucy Ricardo solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in American comedy. Alongside her real-life husband Desi Arnaz, who played Ricky Ricardo, the duo's on-screen chemistry and hilarious antics remain a timeless testament to their talent.After escaping from prison, the evil Dr. Niemann (Boris Karloff) and his hunchbacked assistant, Daniel (J. Carrol Naish), plot their revenge against those who imprisoned them. For this, they recruit the powerful Wolf Man (Lon Chaney), Frankenstein's monster (Glenn Strange) and even Dracula himself (John Carradine). Niemann pursues those who wrong him, sending each monster out to do his dirty work. But his control on the monsters is weak at best and may prove to be his downfall.- #51 of 80 onList of 75+ Famous Monster Movies, Ranked
- #20 of 70 onThe Best Old Horror Movies Of All Time
- #4 of 50 onThe 50 Best Horror Movies Of The '40s, Ranked
19Boris Karloff, Lou Costello, Bud AbbottFor Fans Of: Comedy, Classic Horror, Adventure
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: This classic television show is a must-watch for any Lucille Ball fan, as it showcases her unparalleled comedic timing and physicality that made her a household name. With her iconic red hair and unforgettable facial expressions, Ball's performance as the lovable yet mischievous Lucy Ricardo solidified her legacy as a trailblazer in American comedy. Alongside her real-life husband Desi Arnaz, who played Ricky Ricardo, the duo's on-screen chemistry and hilarious antics remain a timeless testament to their talent.Abbott and Costello Meet Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is a 1953 American comedy horror film directed by Charles Lamont and stars the comedy team of Abbott and Costello, and co-stars Boris Karloff. Loosely based on the novel The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson, the film follows the story of two American detectives visiting Edwardian London who become involved with the hunt for Dr. Jekyll, who is responsible for a series of murders.- #23 of 56 onThe 50+ Best '50s Horror Movies, Ranked
- #31 of 65 onThe Best 1950s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- #6 of 13 onThe Best G-Rated Adventure Comedies
- 20Vincent Price, Peter Lorre, Boris Karloff
For Fans Of: Supernatural, Classic Horror, Anthology
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: A towering achievement in horror-dom finds Boris Karloff masterfully playing sorcerer Dr. Scarabus in this monumental reinvention of Edgar Allan Poe's eerie poem. Beneath the film's light-hearted veneer, the audience resonates with darker yet subtly infused themes of power, deceit, and yearning for mortality. The Raven magnificently shows Karloff injecting life into a character, a blend of malevolent wit and understated sympathy, that etches indelibly in every horror fan's memory, can't miss for those fond of classic horror with a sardonic twistMagician Erasmus Craven (Vincent Price) is still deeply depressed two years after the death of his beloved wife, Lenore (Hazel Court). One day, he's visited by Adolphus Bedlo (Peter Lorre), who has been transformed into a raven after losing a duel to Dr. Scarabus (Boris Karloff), an evil wizard. After Craven transforms Bedlo back into a human, Bedlo claims to have seen Lenore's ghost at Scarabus' castle, prompting the two to head to Scarabus' castle to seek Craven's lost love.More The Raven- #194 of 396 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
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21Boris Karloff, Michèle Mercier, Rika DiallinaFor Fans Of: Supernatural, Classic Horror, Anthology
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Step into the eerie world of Black Sabbath, an anthology of three spine-chilling tales hosted by Boris Karloff himself. Appearing as both the narrator and starring in one of the segments, Karloff showcases his talents in a variety of roles that prove why he is considered a master in the horror genre.Black Sabbath is a 1963 Italian-French horror film directed by Mario Bava. The film is centered on three separate tales that have an introduction and conclusion from Boris Karloff. The film stars an international cast in three short stories. The first, titled "The Telephone", involves Suzy who continually receives threatening telephone calls from an unseen stalker. The second is "The Wurdulak", where a man named Gorca returns to his family after claiming to have slain a Wurdulak, an undead creature who attacks those that it had once loved.More Black Sabbath- #293 of 396 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
- #8 of 23 on22 Terrifying Anthology Horror Movies Perfect for a Halloween Binge
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22Boris Karloff, Barton MacLane, Edmund GwennFor Fans Of: Zombie Horror, Post-Apocalyptic, Drama
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: In this classic crime-horror film, Boris Karloff stars as John Elman – a man falsely executed for murder who is brought back to life by a mad scientist. As Elman seeks revenge on those who wronged him, Karloff's captivating performance adds layers of complexity and emotion to this tale of vengeance and justice.The Walking Dead is a 1936 American horror film distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, directed by Michael Curtiz, and starring Boris Karloff who played a wrongly executed man who is restored to life by a scientist.
23Vincent Price, Peter Lorre, Boris KarloffFor Fans Of: Comedy, Classic Horror, Mystery
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Enjoy a lighter side of Boris Karloff in this macabre comedy featuring an all-star cast including Vincent Price, Peter Lorre, and Basil Rathbone. As funeral parlor operator Amos Hinchley, Karloff demonstrates his comedic chops while still maintaining his distinctive presence as a master of terror.Waldo Trumbull (Vincent Price) is an amoral undertaker in 19th-century New England who takes to murdering people to have enough cash to support his drinking habit. Desperate for money after a widow stiffs him for a burial, Trumbull and his assistant, Gillie (Peter Lorre), decide to kill the wealthy Mr. Black (Basil Rathbone), their landlord, to whom they're indebted. But murdering Black proves to be quite a challenge, as he seems to keep recovering from death every time they do him in.- #260 of 702 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #17 of 27 onThe Greatest Horror Parody Movies, Ranked
- #42 of 75 onThe 75 Best '60s Horror Movies, Ranked
24Basil Rathbone, Boris Karloff, Barbara O'NeilFor Fans Of: Historical Drama, Classic Horror, Thriller
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Step back in time with Boris Karloff as Mord the Executioner in this historical drama that weaves together elements of horror and tragedy. His sinister portrayal adds tension and fear to this tale set during the dark days of England's past.Ambitious Richard, Duke of Gloucester (Basil Rathbone), brother of King Edward IV (Ian Hunter), maneuvers to get the powerful John Wyatt (John Sutton) to France, then has his brother make him the Lord Protectorate for Edward's sons, the two young princes. Impatient that the ill Edward clings to life, Richard arranges his death, as well as that of his other brother, the Duke of Clarence (Vincent Price). With only the princes remaining, Richard's obsession to rule shows no sign of abating.
25Boris Karloff, Cedric Hardwicke, Ernest ThesigerFor Fans Of: Monster Movies, Classic Horror, Thriller
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Experience one of Boris Karloff's earliest cinematic performances in The Ghoul, where he plays Professor Morlant – an Egyptologist obsessed with immortality. This atmospheric thriller provides fans with an opportunity to witness the origins of his legendary career while enjoying a suspenseful story full of mystery and intrigue.Egyptologist and professor Henry Morlant (Boris Karloff) thinks an ancient jewel will give him powers of rejuvenation if it is offered up to the god Anubis. But when Morlant dies, his assistant Laing (Ernest Thesiger) steals the jewel. While a gaggle of interlopers, including a disreputable lawyer (Cedric Hardwicke) and a fake vicar (Ralph Richardson), descend on the professor's manor to steal the jewel for themselves, Morlant returns from the dead to punish everyone who has betrayed him.
26Boris Karloff, Catherine Lacy, Ian OgilvyFor Fans Of: Sci-fi, Psychological Thriller, Classic Horror
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Witness one of Boris Karloff's final films, The Sorcerers, in which he stars as a hypnotist with sinister intentions. This psychological thriller allows Karloff to display his talent for portraying wicked characters while providing a fitting capstone to his illustrious career.A professor (Boris Karloff) and his wife (Catherine Lacey) can feel the sensations of a mod British teen (Ian Ogilvy) whose mind they control.
27Walter Huston, Phillips Holmes, Constance CummingsFor Fans Of: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: In this early performance, Boris Karloff plays a supporting role as a convict plotting an escape from prison in the crime drama The Criminal Code. While not yet a leading man, his menacing presence hints at the iconic roles that would soon follow, making this film essential viewing for fans eager to see the beginnings of their favorite horror legend.After young Robert Graham (Phillips Holmes) commits a murder while drunk and defending his girlfriend, he is prosecuted by ambitious Mark Brady (Walter Huston) and sentenced to 10 years. Six years later, Brady becomes the prison warden and offers the beleaguered Robert a job as his chauffeur. Robert cleans up his act, but, on the eve of his pardon, his cellmate drags him back into the world of violence, and he faces a difficult choice that could return him to prison.
28Boris Karloff, Bruce Bennett, Charles TrowbridgeFor Fans Of: Sci-fi, Classic Horror, Mystery
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Dive into the world of mad science and immortality with Boris Karloff as Dr. Kravaal in The Man with Nine Lives – a tale filled with suspense and intrigue that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats until its thrilling conclusion.The Man with Nine Lives is a 1940 American science fiction mystery film directed by Nick Grinde and starring Boris Karloff.
29Boris Karloff, Cecil Parker, Anna LeeFor Fans Of: Sci-fi, Drama, Classic Horror
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Explore the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition in this cautionary tale featuring Boris Karloff as Dr. Laurience – a brilliant scientist who discovers how to transfer minds between bodies but finds himself consumed by his own creation.The Man Who Changed His Mind is a 1936 British science fiction horror film starring Boris Karloff and Anna Lee. It was directed by Robert Stevenson and was produced by Gainsborough Pictures. The film was also known as The Brainsnatcher or The Man Who Lived Again.
30Boris Karloff, Grant Withers, Marjorie ReynoldsFor Fans Of: Mystery, Thriller, Film Noir
Reasons to Watch if you Love Boris Karloff: Delight in this classic whodunit starring Boris Karloff as James Lee Wong – an unassuming but brilliant detective tasked with solving a series of mysterious murders tied together by greed and deception.Doomed to Die is a 1940 mystery film directed by William Nigh and starring Boris Karloff as Mr. Wong. It is a sequel to the 1940 film, The Fatal Hour.
