“Keeper of the Grotto of Torture!” Synopsis: A scientist, aided by an old hag and her two sons, kills virginal brides, steals their bodies, and extracts gland fluid to keep his ancient wife alive and young.

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Calamity Brains:

The Corpse Vanishes isn’t Bela Lugosi’s best work, but it’s far from his worst. It has an interesting plot, decent music, good using of lighting – and lots of horror tropes.

There has been a strange rash of brides dying on their wedding day, and Patricia Hunter is on the case. She’s essentially a cross between Courteney Cox’s character in Scream and a rogue detective with nothing left to lose – except she faints a lot. Still, she’s rather independent and plucky for the ‘40s, and a likable main character.

Following up on a lead, Patricia goes to interview Dr. Lorenz (Bela Lugosi). His household is very Addams Family-esque, but without the wholesome part. The reporter tries to unravel the mystery behind the dying brides, but the audience is clued in fairly early. I assume the intent is to add to the tension and highlight the danger Patricia is in, but personally, I like a little more mystery.

A stalwart gentleman, a midget, and a necrophiliac later, we arrive at the movie’s kooky endgame. The reporter sets a trap for Bela Lugosi, only to have it go wrong (naturally). People die, dreams are shattered, and the reporter finally gets the scoop of her career – only to immediately quit and become a housewife. (Ah, the ‘40s. Not the most satisfying of endings, but I’ll take it.)

All in all, I rather liked The Corpse Vanishes.

Calamity Brains’ Rating: B-
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