This adaptation of Charles Dickens' famous unfinished novel is made in the style of Universal's horror films: in fact, it not only features many of their participants (from both sides of the camera) but actually shares several sets with BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN (1935) –making the film all that more enjoyable and fascinating a viewing! The stunning opening sequence, depicting an opium-induced hallucination, is followed by the shocking discovery of the addict involved (Claude Rains) to be the choirmaster of the local church! Jealously in love with a girl (Heather Angel) about to marry his nephew (David Manners in the title role), he schemes to get the boy out of the way – unaware that the couple had mutually given each other up when she falls for hot-tempered newcomer Douglass Montgomery; the latter's own shaky relationship with Drood leads to his being suspected of foul play when Manners goes missing – a situation Rains encourages for obvious reasons. Montgomery, however, does not rest on his laurels – indeed, he makes himself up as an old man in order to conduct his own private investigation! The exciting climax – set inside the crypt so memorably utilized in the James Whale masterpiece I mentioned earlier – sees the villain engaged in a scuffle with the hero, eventually getting his just desserts in melodramatic fashion. The film, then, serves as an interesting companion piece to contemporaneous Dickensian adaptations (a star-studded David COPPERFIELD emerged from MGM that same year) and should also pique the interest of horror buffs for the reasons I delineated at the start
24 Reviews
Included in Universal's popular SHOCK THEATER television package
kevinolzak30 January 2014
1935's "Mystery of Edwin Drood" was Universal's followup to their equally lavish Dickens adaptation "Great Expectations," on par with later efforts such as "Tower of London" and "The House of the Seven Gables." The unfinished 1870 story certainly begged for a proper solution, baffling bibliophiles over the decades, but this film's weakest flaw is that its depiction is fatally predictable. We are shown right away the drug-addled choirmaster John Jasper (Claude Rains), whose frequent illnesses are a mask for his addiction to opium (a welcome touch seemingly missed by the Hays code). Jasper's secret desire for his lovely young ward Rosa Bud (Heather Angel) is clearly no surprise to her, his piercing gaze sending her into paroxysms of fear, and since she has been betrothed since childhood to Jasper's beloved nephew Edwin Drood (David Manners), evil thoughts begin to grow in the older man's mind. Enter Neville Landless (Douglass Montgomery) and his beautiful sister Helena (Valerie Hobson), recent arrivals from Ceylon, allowing Jasper to foment an acrimonious rivalry over Rosa between the hot tempered Neville (who has quickly fallen for her) and her intended groom. There are precious few surprises in the script as written, so it's up to the excellent cast to carry the day. With so many Dickensian characters surrounding him, Claude Rains actually winds up in a subordinate role, while Douglass Montgomery, typecast in romantic parts, relishes the opportunity for some real scenery chewing in disguise (he enjoyed another in 1939's "The Cat and the Canary."). Heather Angel had two future genre titles ahead, 1942's "The Undying Monster" and 1962's "Premature Burial," while 17 year old Valerie Hobson was apparently Universal's busiest starlet of 1935, immediately rejoining director Stuart Walker on "WereWolf of London" (along with Zeffie Tilbury, Ethel Griffies, Vera Buckland, and J. M. Kerrigan). David Manners bid farewell to Universal here, completing just five more low budget features before quitting Hollywood by 1937. Look fast for unbilled bits from Will Geer, lighting lamps 44 minutes in, and Walter Brennan, gossiping about Neville Landless at the 30 minute mark. Despite its inclusion in Universal's popular SHOCK! television package of the late 50s, "Mystery of Edwin Drood" never once made the rounds on Pittsburgh's Chiller Theater, a fate that also befell 1935's "The Great Impersonation," 1938's "The Last Warning," 1939's "The Witness Vanishes," and 1942's "Mystery of Marie Roget."
Timeless
Panamint7 November 2014
This film is now about 80 years old and it refers to a time about 80 years before that. Much of the dialog is kind of Dickensian and all spoken with British accents. Yes its slow developing at first but at least this gives you a good introduction to the characters, much as a novel might do. But it proves again one fact that has been well known for 150 years: Charles Dickens was a heck of a storyteller.
One of the foundation stones of mystery film making, "The Mystery of Edwin Drood" still holds up in its mystery elements (murder, cemetery, crypt, fog, etc.)
Claude Rains is bravura in a complex role. Sweet-faced Heather Angel, Douglass Montgomery and David Manners provide fresh, youthful energy. All of the performers bring Dickens' vivid characters to life.
E.E.Clive gives one of his gem-like performances in a small part. Its a pleasure to let yourself go back in time as you enter the long-lost world of Dickens and this long-lost film making art.
One of the foundation stones of mystery film making, "The Mystery of Edwin Drood" still holds up in its mystery elements (murder, cemetery, crypt, fog, etc.)
Claude Rains is bravura in a complex role. Sweet-faced Heather Angel, Douglass Montgomery and David Manners provide fresh, youthful energy. All of the performers bring Dickens' vivid characters to life.
E.E.Clive gives one of his gem-like performances in a small part. Its a pleasure to let yourself go back in time as you enter the long-lost world of Dickens and this long-lost film making art.
"You must learn to fight down this sudden infatuation"
ackstasis23 January 2009
Warning: Spoilers
Above all else, it was the promise of a hilariously young Claude Rains that prompted me to watch 'Mystery of Edwin Drood (1935),' a Universal adaptation of Charles Dickens' final, unfinished novel. Rains had, of course, appeared in Whales' 'The Invisible Man (1933)' a few years earlier, but, curiously, it was difficult to get a good look at him in that film, so this was my main opportunity to catch the excellent supporting actor before he was forever condemned to playing grey-haired characters. His role here as John Jasper is completely unforgettable, a riveting portrait of inner torment that communicates so much through every bodily twitch and strained facial expression. Just watch Rains as his character watches the beautiful Rosa through hungry, agonised eyes the pure anguish rippling through Jasper's body is almost painful to behold, the image of a polluted mind and soul reaching the end of its tether. It's moments like this that made Rains one of the finest actors of Hollywood's golden age.
"The Mystery of Edwin Drood" is itself one of literature's greatest mysteries. Left unfinished in 1870 after Dickens' death, the story reaches no conclusion, leaving scholars to ponder endlessly about how the author intended to wrap up the novel's events. The murderer of Edwin Drood (if, indeed, he was ever murdered) will thus never been known for sure. Stuart Walker's adaptation attempts to fill in these gaps as best as it can, and this is accomplished quite well, indeed. Despite the high potential for failure, the story does feel as though it's flowing towards its logical conclusion, and John Jasper's guilt ultimately seems the only practical option. Also a product of the screenwriters' imaginations was the identity of Dick Datchery, a wheezing old stranger who arrives in town for a month or two in the film, he is the incognito Neville Landless, determined to solve the mystery of Drood's disappearance, though Dickens' story reaches no such conclusions. Though we can never know the author's true intentions, these respectful suppositions are probably the best we're ever going to get.
Claude Rains is clearly the film's standout performer, giving a edgy and tortured performance as the tormented soul who (in this version) enacts his frustrations through strangulation. David Manners, no stranger to Universal horror regulars, is quite good as the titular murder victim, though his character isn't all that interesting next to his deranged uncle. Douglass Montgomery, with distinctive chiselled facial features, plays the romantic lead with sufficient conviction, and his interpretation of Datchery is enjoyable, as well. I didn't recognise Heather Angel by sight, but she's appeared in several films with which I'm quite familiar Ford's 'The Informer (1935)' and Hitchcock's 'Lifeboat (1944).' Her performance as Rosa Bud (yeah, I laughed, too) in 'Mystery of Edwin Drood' is perfectly serviceable, given that it demands nothing except that she look beautiful and she does. For fans of Charles Dickens, fans of Claude Rains, or fans of good old-fashioned storytelling, this little-seen mystery drama is very much worth the effort it takes to track down.
"The Mystery of Edwin Drood" is itself one of literature's greatest mysteries. Left unfinished in 1870 after Dickens' death, the story reaches no conclusion, leaving scholars to ponder endlessly about how the author intended to wrap up the novel's events. The murderer of Edwin Drood (if, indeed, he was ever murdered) will thus never been known for sure. Stuart Walker's adaptation attempts to fill in these gaps as best as it can, and this is accomplished quite well, indeed. Despite the high potential for failure, the story does feel as though it's flowing towards its logical conclusion, and John Jasper's guilt ultimately seems the only practical option. Also a product of the screenwriters' imaginations was the identity of Dick Datchery, a wheezing old stranger who arrives in town for a month or two in the film, he is the incognito Neville Landless, determined to solve the mystery of Drood's disappearance, though Dickens' story reaches no such conclusions. Though we can never know the author's true intentions, these respectful suppositions are probably the best we're ever going to get.
Claude Rains is clearly the film's standout performer, giving a edgy and tortured performance as the tormented soul who (in this version) enacts his frustrations through strangulation. David Manners, no stranger to Universal horror regulars, is quite good as the titular murder victim, though his character isn't all that interesting next to his deranged uncle. Douglass Montgomery, with distinctive chiselled facial features, plays the romantic lead with sufficient conviction, and his interpretation of Datchery is enjoyable, as well. I didn't recognise Heather Angel by sight, but she's appeared in several films with which I'm quite familiar Ford's 'The Informer (1935)' and Hitchcock's 'Lifeboat (1944).' Her performance as Rosa Bud (yeah, I laughed, too) in 'Mystery of Edwin Drood' is perfectly serviceable, given that it demands nothing except that she look beautiful and she does. For fans of Charles Dickens, fans of Claude Rains, or fans of good old-fashioned storytelling, this little-seen mystery drama is very much worth the effort it takes to track down.
A problematic film, though beautifully filmed.
mark.waltz4 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
For a Dickens novel without a conclusion, this has had quite the afterlife, with several films, a Tony winning Broadway musical and a hit revival. But it's been tough for this film, which among the five Dickens novels adapted for screen in the 30's is probably least remembered. The film stars Claude Rains as the uncle of the title character, the possibly insane choir master who is upset when nephew David Manners wins the love of the young woman he's obsessed with (Heather Angel).
When Drood is found murdered, the mystery of who kills him reveals a ton of questions not revealed by Dickens who died before exposing it for the conclusion of his novel. Douglass Montgomery as his main rival is the top suspect, and there's a lot of finger pointing going on with supporting players E. E. Clive, Francis L. Sullivan and Walter Kingsford. Ethel Griffies, Zeffie Tilbury and beautiful Valarie Hobson are also among the ensemble. I found this quite different than the musical which had a music hall performance setting. Still an interesting experiment if sadly flawed.
When Drood is found murdered, the mystery of who kills him reveals a ton of questions not revealed by Dickens who died before exposing it for the conclusion of his novel. Douglass Montgomery as his main rival is the top suspect, and there's a lot of finger pointing going on with supporting players E. E. Clive, Francis L. Sullivan and Walter Kingsford. Ethel Griffies, Zeffie Tilbury and beautiful Valarie Hobson are also among the ensemble. I found this quite different than the musical which had a music hall performance setting. Still an interesting experiment if sadly flawed.
A little gem.
thedivinewoman20 December 2021
Warning: Spoilers
It does start off very slowly, but, it is definitely worth sticking with. I'm becoming more and more of the opinion that these adaptations of classic novels, despite many of them being abridged versions of the original books, are more in keeping with what the author intended and are a better viewing experience. There is now a culture of taking classic novels and casting BAME actors in the lead roles or in the case of an upcoming Jules Verne adaptation, giving a major character a complete sex change (and change of employment)
This version of Edwin Drood begins in an opium den and that aspect of life is well done considering when this was made. It slows temporarily to establish the characters, but, then it picks up and is a jolly good movie. Well acted and directed it is not a Universal Horror, but, is mainly quite dark.
I would recommend anyone who loves movies of this era to watch it.
I would recommend anyone who loves movies of this era to watch it.
A brilliant screenplay!
JohnHowardReid2 April 2018
Warning: Spoilers
Director: STUART WALKER. Screenplay: John L. Balderston and Gladys Unger. Adaptation: Leopold Atlas, Bradley King. Based on the unfinished 1870 novel by Charles Dickens. Photography: George Robinson. Film editor: Edward Curtiss. Music composed by Edward Ward and Clifford Vaughan, orchestrated by Clifford Vaughan. Art director: Albert S. D'Agostino. Special effects: John P. Fulton. Technical advisor: Hilda Grenier. Assistant directors: Phil Karlson, Harry Mancke. Associate producer: Edmund Grainger.
Copyright 5 February 1935 by Universal Pictures Corp. Presented by Carl Laemmle. New York opening at the Rialto: 20 March 1935. 9 reels. 85 minutes.
SYNOPSIS: Rains is a cathedral choirmaster and opium addict who falls in love with Angel, the fiancee of his nephew, Manners. During a raging storm on Christmas Eve he strangles Manners and dumps his body in a quicklime pit in the crypt under the cathedral. He then tries to pin the murder on Montgomery, just back from Ceylon.
COMMENT: A brilliant screenplay by John L. Balderston and Gladys Unger from a fine adaptation by Leopold Atlas and Bradley King, which not only preserves the dialogue and flavor of Charles Dickens' unfinished novel, but provides it with a most satisfactory and satisfying conclusion, more than makes up for some very incompetent acting and Stuart Walker's rather stagey direction.
George Robinson's photography is less brilliant than usual, but there are some magnificent sets by art director Albert S. D'Agostino.
Copyright 5 February 1935 by Universal Pictures Corp. Presented by Carl Laemmle. New York opening at the Rialto: 20 March 1935. 9 reels. 85 minutes.
SYNOPSIS: Rains is a cathedral choirmaster and opium addict who falls in love with Angel, the fiancee of his nephew, Manners. During a raging storm on Christmas Eve he strangles Manners and dumps his body in a quicklime pit in the crypt under the cathedral. He then tries to pin the murder on Montgomery, just back from Ceylon.
COMMENT: A brilliant screenplay by John L. Balderston and Gladys Unger from a fine adaptation by Leopold Atlas and Bradley King, which not only preserves the dialogue and flavor of Charles Dickens' unfinished novel, but provides it with a most satisfactory and satisfying conclusion, more than makes up for some very incompetent acting and Stuart Walker's rather stagey direction.
George Robinson's photography is less brilliant than usual, but there are some magnificent sets by art director Albert S. D'Agostino.
Very good, as an adaptation and on its own
TheLittleSongbird20 September 2013
Claude Rains, a consistently great actor, is reason enough to see any film. And Mystery of Edwin Drood is very good, it does a noble job adapting an unfinished book and works very well on its own. It does have pacing issues and the ending is far too melodramatic. The stylised Gothic sets though are very striking and the film is filmed most handsomely and further advantaged by generous direction from Stuart Walker. The atmosphere evoked really does give off a sense of unease. The dialogue is easy to follow and is written, while the story is tense and suspenseful. The film is short for a Dickens adaptation, but the mystery is always involving and respects the book, well with what they had to work with, rather than disembowelling it. The characters are believable, especially the tortured and creepy John Jasper. Claude Rains may have given better performances, but he is still exceptional, and from Rains you wouldn't expect any less. In fact all the cast acquits themselves well, particularly Douglass Montgommery and Heather Angel. David Manners doesn't have as much to do but is also good. To conclude, very good. 8/10 Bethany Cox
Stone me
begob7 October 2022
When his eye is caught by a pretty bride-to-be in a sleepy Victorian town, a dashing stranger finds himself up against more than the groom ... with deadly consequences.
Truncated telling of an uncompleted story, the history of which other reviewers have covered. There's plenty of Dickensian delights in the minor characters and great potential in what is not a love-triangle, but a square: one object of attraction for three men with differing motives. So maybe a love-rhombus? Sounds rude.
The early scenes brush past a lot of humour, but once the characterization establishes itself the mood improves - that is, after the music editing stops drowning out the dialogue. The hero is a dark-skinned Indian, which is surprising given the author's blood-curdling views on the Indian mutineers from a few years previous.
The potential really is for dark secrets to emerge from the past, and there's one poor piece of editing after the first ring scene that accidentally shows how it might be done, when it seems the relationship of the betrothed couple has all of a sudden taken a sinister twist. But no - instead, the screenwriter has filled in the author's work with an implausible plot disguise, leaving the past untouched. Also untouched is the background of the drug abuse, but by this point I'm imagining a heap of dark psychology. The potential is there, just as in Great Expectations, and I'm sure Dickens wouldn't turn in his grave.
The sets and costumes are charming. Cinematography has its moments, especially the close-up on the hero at the river, with torch-lights framing his head.
Could do with a remake on a more entangled plot.
Truncated telling of an uncompleted story, the history of which other reviewers have covered. There's plenty of Dickensian delights in the minor characters and great potential in what is not a love-triangle, but a square: one object of attraction for three men with differing motives. So maybe a love-rhombus? Sounds rude.
The early scenes brush past a lot of humour, but once the characterization establishes itself the mood improves - that is, after the music editing stops drowning out the dialogue. The hero is a dark-skinned Indian, which is surprising given the author's blood-curdling views on the Indian mutineers from a few years previous.
The potential really is for dark secrets to emerge from the past, and there's one poor piece of editing after the first ring scene that accidentally shows how it might be done, when it seems the relationship of the betrothed couple has all of a sudden taken a sinister twist. But no - instead, the screenwriter has filled in the author's work with an implausible plot disguise, leaving the past untouched. Also untouched is the background of the drug abuse, but by this point I'm imagining a heap of dark psychology. The potential is there, just as in Great Expectations, and I'm sure Dickens wouldn't turn in his grave.
The sets and costumes are charming. Cinematography has its moments, especially the close-up on the hero at the river, with torch-lights framing his head.
Could do with a remake on a more entangled plot.
Not a Horror Movie
LanceBrave1 December 2013
Despite being featured in reference books about the Universal Monster movies and included in similarly themed VHS collections, "The Mystery of Edwin Drood" is not a horror movie. Not even kind of. It is, perhaps I should have seen this coming, a stodgy costume drama, through and through. There are the most marginal of marginal horror elements. A murder, a tomb, some drug induced hallucinations, a storm, a creepy shadow cast on a wall. Despite the Victorian setting, the movie totally lacks any foggy English atmosphere.
It's not a bad movie, though it is slow paced. Claude Rains gives an excellent performance as Uncle Jasper. The character, as written, could have been an obvious villain, leeringly lusting after a girl twenty years younger then him, an opium addict, so clearly plotting revenge. However, Rains makes him a real person. Though Rosa is disgusted by him (A little unfairly), his love for her is true, his devotion sincere. He shows remorse for his action, especially at the end. His decisions aren't calculated, but rather rich with doubt. Rains' gravelly delivery is used extremely well. The rest of the cast too, notably Douglass Montgomery as the accused boy, who even makes the somewhat absurd old man disguise actually work. The girls seem like very stereotypical Victorian ladies at first but do eventually develop personalities. There's one really cool shot of a paper aging before our eyes, showing the pass of time brilliantly. Otherwise? I can't say I was too horribly interested in this one.
It's not a bad movie, though it is slow paced. Claude Rains gives an excellent performance as Uncle Jasper. The character, as written, could have been an obvious villain, leeringly lusting after a girl twenty years younger then him, an opium addict, so clearly plotting revenge. However, Rains makes him a real person. Though Rosa is disgusted by him (A little unfairly), his love for her is true, his devotion sincere. He shows remorse for his action, especially at the end. His decisions aren't calculated, but rather rich with doubt. Rains' gravelly delivery is used extremely well. The rest of the cast too, notably Douglass Montgomery as the accused boy, who even makes the somewhat absurd old man disguise actually work. The girls seem like very stereotypical Victorian ladies at first but do eventually develop personalities. There's one really cool shot of a paper aging before our eyes, showing the pass of time brilliantly. Otherwise? I can't say I was too horribly interested in this one.
How did this one ever get past the censors?
AlsExGal5 December 2015
Warning: Spoilers
I just watched this one the other night again. I don't know how the entirety of "Mystery of Edwin Drood" got past the censors and the production code that was only a year old at the time. John Jasper (Claude Rains) is a choirmaster who frequents an opium den because he cannot deal with what he feels is the hypocrisy and ennui of church life. He even talks about how he envies the monks of old because at least they got to carve figures of demons as church decorations to release their dark side. The only spot of brightness in Jasper's life is Rosa Bud - folks I didn't come up with this name - who has been pledged to Jasper's nephew (David Manners as Edwin Drood) since the two were children. Yet Jasper still covets her as she becomes a young woman. Edwin and Rosa have always been friends, but seem to be approaching this marriage with all of the enthusiasm of somebody who is facing a root canal.
Meanwhile, Neville and Helena Landless, a brother and sister of mixed racial heritage from Ceylon, come to town. With Nevile and Rosa it is almost love at first sight, but Neville realizes she is spoken for. Rosa and Edwin break their engagement, based on the fact that they eventually realize that their marriage was their parents' dreams, not their own. Earlier, Jasper has announced his love to Rosa in a very creepy way, and she is repulsed by his stalking. Jasper assumes that it is Edwin that is standing in his way, and that night, Christmas Eve, Edwin Drood disappears before anybody can be told of his broken engagement. What happened to Edwin Drood? That is the mystery. Watch and find out.
This thing is just a huge code buster all around - that is part of its allure. Although the wrongdoers are punished in the end, the biracial love angle and the fact that there could be a hypocrite in a position of authority in the church violates the production code completely. There is also that great Universal Gothic atmosphere plus the acting is top notch. I highly recommend it.
Meanwhile, Neville and Helena Landless, a brother and sister of mixed racial heritage from Ceylon, come to town. With Nevile and Rosa it is almost love at first sight, but Neville realizes she is spoken for. Rosa and Edwin break their engagement, based on the fact that they eventually realize that their marriage was their parents' dreams, not their own. Earlier, Jasper has announced his love to Rosa in a very creepy way, and she is repulsed by his stalking. Jasper assumes that it is Edwin that is standing in his way, and that night, Christmas Eve, Edwin Drood disappears before anybody can be told of his broken engagement. What happened to Edwin Drood? That is the mystery. Watch and find out.
This thing is just a huge code buster all around - that is part of its allure. Although the wrongdoers are punished in the end, the biracial love angle and the fact that there could be a hypocrite in a position of authority in the church violates the production code completely. There is also that great Universal Gothic atmosphere plus the acting is top notch. I highly recommend it.
Much clearer and faithful than the 2012 TV version. Actually very enjoyable for a film from this period. Especially important for Dickens fans.
mickman91-114 January 2022
I like my Dickens adaptations to be faithful and respectful. Although this novel was unfinished at the time of Dickens death, it was only the ending that was left unfinished and he seems to have made it clearly to from other sources how the novel was to be concluded. The 2021 TV version seemed to me to take a lot of liberty and tried to make it more complicated that it actually is in order to help boost its TV appeal. This 1935 version was much more to the point and respectful to the Dickensian spirit. Because of this I thoroughly enjoyed it and remember it much more clearly as well as fondly as the 2012 version. There was a 1993 version which reportedly wasn't that well considered, but outside of purchasing an expensive used VHS from America and digging an old VHS player out of my grandads loft, I don't think I (or most of you) will ever get the chance to see that one. So for now this is the best version that we have.
Completing an unfinished symphony.
theowinthrop31 October 2004
Charles Dickens reputation did not need THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD to survive his death in 1870. He already had David COPPERFIELD, GREAT EXPECTATIONS, PICKWICK PAPERS, BLEAK HOUSE, OLIVER TWIST, A Christmas CAROL, A TALE OF TWO CITIES, and seven or eight other titles to remind the world of his talents. But he was a very jealous man. He edited a magazine, ALL THE YEAR ROUND, and had been lucky enough to get his friend, William Wilkie Collins, to write a novel for it to be serialized. It was THE MOONSTONE. It became the best selling series of issues for the magazine - outstripping issues that had contained Dickens' novel OUR MUTUAL FRIEND. Dickens did not care for that.
He had been accused of writing sensational novels by his critics. OLIVER TWIST was certainly a crime centered tale of gangs of youths trained to be thieves in London. Murders played parts in MARTIN CHUZZLEWIT, BLEAK HOUSE, A TALE OF TWO CITIES, and OUR MUTUAL FRIEND. In his lesser fiction, he had used characters based on real life poisoners Thomas Griffith Wainewright and Dr. William Palmer. But in all of his books Dickens used crime and criminal as an element, not the central element, of the story. He was a social critic, and he had to notice crime as part of the social scene. Collins did this too, but he centered his plots on the crimes in the stories. Dickens, who could plot as well as Collins, could not quite see how differently the two approached novel writing.
So Dickens decided he would write one novel where the center would be the commission of a crime: to wit, the disappearance (and probable murder) of the title character Edwin ("Ned") Drood. The novel's main figure would be Drood's young uncle (and rival) John Jasper. Both are in love with Rosa Bud, the ward of the lawyer Hiram Grewgious. Jasper, who is the choirmaster in "an old cathedral town" (based on Canterbury), is a secret opiun user. He loves his nephew, and yet cannot avoid hating him as a rival for the young woman. But they are not the only rivals here. Ned Landless, the brother of Helene Landless, is a headstrong young man who is courting Rosa (and it turns out he is actually the one she favors). There is a public scene between Landless and Drood, in which Landless threatens his rival, while a thoughtful Jasper looks on. Finally, Rosa and Edwin have a talk, and she firmly breaks off their engagement. Shortly afterwards, Edwin Drood vanishes.
Has he left to bury his wounded heart abroad? Has he met with an accident in which he has lost his memory, or is injured and unable to get notice to his friends? Has he been killed in an accident? Has he committed suicide? Has he been murdered...and by whom?
Jasper, of course, starts hinting broadly that his dear Ned has been murdered, and the murderer is Neville Landless. Landless insists that he and Drood have made up their quarrel (but there appears to be no witness to this). Jasper starts putting pressure on the local authorities (led by a beautiful example of Dickensian bureaucratic stupidity, Lord Mayor Thomas Sapsea) to arrest Neville, even though no body has been located. Neville flees.
Jasper has the situation in his hand ... except that Neville's sister Helene does not trust him (and she makes a smitten ally in a young naval officer, Lieutenant Tartar). Grewgious also has his suspicions, when Jasper faints when he hears from the lawyer that Edwin and Rosa had broken their engagement. Reverend Crisparkle, the local clergyman, keeps Rosa comforted - but he is worried because Neville's fleeing is not good for his reputation of being innocent. Then to add to Jasper's woes, the old lady running the opium den he frequents (known as "the Princess Puffer") shows up, apparently looking into possible blackmail after she overhears something Jasper said about the missing Ned while under the drug. Similarly a stranger with a long white beard, Dick Datcherly, comes to town, and is making many inquiries. He meets the Princess Puffer, and he also meets "Durdles", the keeper of the local cathedral's burial grounds, who tells him about Jasper's interest in quicklime, and in the Sapsea memorial, which is supposed to be empty.
After completing about two thirds of EDWIN DROOD, Dickens died suddenly. He left a literary puzzle that remains to perplex and bother his fans to this day.
From my description it looks like he was aiming at Drood being murdered, and the murderer being John Jasper. Most of the details that survive suggest that Edwin was not going to reappear. But was Neville to reappear? Or was he Datcherly (or was Tartar or Grewgious Datcherly...or was Datcherly a new character in his own right - sent by Neville)? Who would uncover the truth: Datcherly, Grewgious, Neville, Helene, Rosa?
In OLIVER TWIST the novel ended with a masterfully horror scene of Fagin in the death cell awaiting for his execution. Similar scenes were in BARNABY RUDGE, and (slightly changed) in A TALE OF TWO CITIES. It has beens suggested that DROOD would have ended with Jasper in the death cell, thinking about his crimes (he may actually have ended up killing at least two other characters before the end), and defending his conduct to his own satisfaction. If so, it would have been a true masterpiece of detective fiction. Instead it survives as a perplexing fragment which many people (including the actor, Sir Felix Aylmer) have tried to tear the secret out of.
I saw the musical version of this in the 1980s, which (ironically enough) starred George Rose - who would die by a planned murder within two years of my seeing him on stage. The musical concentrated on a "who-dunnit" with audience participation. It was okay, but missed the point that a detective story by Dickens had to be more than a "who-dunnit", but a sensible piece of literary craftsmanship.
This film is okay too. Douglas Montgomery, a forgotten actor, gave one of his best performances as Neville (and Datcherly in this version). Rains is masterful as the moody, and suspicious acting Jasper. One only wishes E.E.Clive were given more time to expand on the pompous Sapsea, but he touches on him well. But the melodrama is pushed here, not the treatment Dickens probably had in mind. As an entertainment, I'd recommend it. As a dose of Dickens...read the fragment he left, think about what I said, and weep for what we lost.
He had been accused of writing sensational novels by his critics. OLIVER TWIST was certainly a crime centered tale of gangs of youths trained to be thieves in London. Murders played parts in MARTIN CHUZZLEWIT, BLEAK HOUSE, A TALE OF TWO CITIES, and OUR MUTUAL FRIEND. In his lesser fiction, he had used characters based on real life poisoners Thomas Griffith Wainewright and Dr. William Palmer. But in all of his books Dickens used crime and criminal as an element, not the central element, of the story. He was a social critic, and he had to notice crime as part of the social scene. Collins did this too, but he centered his plots on the crimes in the stories. Dickens, who could plot as well as Collins, could not quite see how differently the two approached novel writing.
So Dickens decided he would write one novel where the center would be the commission of a crime: to wit, the disappearance (and probable murder) of the title character Edwin ("Ned") Drood. The novel's main figure would be Drood's young uncle (and rival) John Jasper. Both are in love with Rosa Bud, the ward of the lawyer Hiram Grewgious. Jasper, who is the choirmaster in "an old cathedral town" (based on Canterbury), is a secret opiun user. He loves his nephew, and yet cannot avoid hating him as a rival for the young woman. But they are not the only rivals here. Ned Landless, the brother of Helene Landless, is a headstrong young man who is courting Rosa (and it turns out he is actually the one she favors). There is a public scene between Landless and Drood, in which Landless threatens his rival, while a thoughtful Jasper looks on. Finally, Rosa and Edwin have a talk, and she firmly breaks off their engagement. Shortly afterwards, Edwin Drood vanishes.
Has he left to bury his wounded heart abroad? Has he met with an accident in which he has lost his memory, or is injured and unable to get notice to his friends? Has he been killed in an accident? Has he committed suicide? Has he been murdered...and by whom?
Jasper, of course, starts hinting broadly that his dear Ned has been murdered, and the murderer is Neville Landless. Landless insists that he and Drood have made up their quarrel (but there appears to be no witness to this). Jasper starts putting pressure on the local authorities (led by a beautiful example of Dickensian bureaucratic stupidity, Lord Mayor Thomas Sapsea) to arrest Neville, even though no body has been located. Neville flees.
Jasper has the situation in his hand ... except that Neville's sister Helene does not trust him (and she makes a smitten ally in a young naval officer, Lieutenant Tartar). Grewgious also has his suspicions, when Jasper faints when he hears from the lawyer that Edwin and Rosa had broken their engagement. Reverend Crisparkle, the local clergyman, keeps Rosa comforted - but he is worried because Neville's fleeing is not good for his reputation of being innocent. Then to add to Jasper's woes, the old lady running the opium den he frequents (known as "the Princess Puffer") shows up, apparently looking into possible blackmail after she overhears something Jasper said about the missing Ned while under the drug. Similarly a stranger with a long white beard, Dick Datcherly, comes to town, and is making many inquiries. He meets the Princess Puffer, and he also meets "Durdles", the keeper of the local cathedral's burial grounds, who tells him about Jasper's interest in quicklime, and in the Sapsea memorial, which is supposed to be empty.
After completing about two thirds of EDWIN DROOD, Dickens died suddenly. He left a literary puzzle that remains to perplex and bother his fans to this day.
From my description it looks like he was aiming at Drood being murdered, and the murderer being John Jasper. Most of the details that survive suggest that Edwin was not going to reappear. But was Neville to reappear? Or was he Datcherly (or was Tartar or Grewgious Datcherly...or was Datcherly a new character in his own right - sent by Neville)? Who would uncover the truth: Datcherly, Grewgious, Neville, Helene, Rosa?
In OLIVER TWIST the novel ended with a masterfully horror scene of Fagin in the death cell awaiting for his execution. Similar scenes were in BARNABY RUDGE, and (slightly changed) in A TALE OF TWO CITIES. It has beens suggested that DROOD would have ended with Jasper in the death cell, thinking about his crimes (he may actually have ended up killing at least two other characters before the end), and defending his conduct to his own satisfaction. If so, it would have been a true masterpiece of detective fiction. Instead it survives as a perplexing fragment which many people (including the actor, Sir Felix Aylmer) have tried to tear the secret out of.
I saw the musical version of this in the 1980s, which (ironically enough) starred George Rose - who would die by a planned murder within two years of my seeing him on stage. The musical concentrated on a "who-dunnit" with audience participation. It was okay, but missed the point that a detective story by Dickens had to be more than a "who-dunnit", but a sensible piece of literary craftsmanship.
This film is okay too. Douglas Montgomery, a forgotten actor, gave one of his best performances as Neville (and Datcherly in this version). Rains is masterful as the moody, and suspicious acting Jasper. One only wishes E.E.Clive were given more time to expand on the pompous Sapsea, but he touches on him well. But the melodrama is pushed here, not the treatment Dickens probably had in mind. As an entertainment, I'd recommend it. As a dose of Dickens...read the fragment he left, think about what I said, and weep for what we lost.
Mystery, Done Well...
xerses135 December 2011
Universal in 1935 took on 'The Mystery Of Edwin Drood' a uncompleted Dickens novel. This is the first sound version, after two (2) silent adaptations and made in their 'Classic Horror' style. The film featured their current stock company, including David Manners and Valerie Hobson and the powerful presence of free lancer Claude Rains. These are all professionals and deliver what is expected of them.
As in the other 'Classic Horror' adaptations of the time this film has a certain look. Every studio had a 'look' for their efforts. Grimy streets for Warner Brothers gangster films, pristine palaces and with C. B. DeMille, washrooms at Paramount. M.G.M. all gloss and polish in almost every production and R.K.O. art-deco grace. With Universal, decrepit buildings, cobwebs, drawing rooms with lots of stuff to knock over with crisp cinematography.
For details of the plot either watch the film or read one of the other reviewers, they give a blow by blow description and plenty of detail, more is not needed here. What can be said it is too bad that for some reason Universal keeps these films buried in their vaults along with some 600 films from Paramounts classic period. Shown today on TCM (12/05/2011) this is the first time I can recall seeing it since the early 1960s! It does not disappoint, the print being in excellent condition. Hopefully more of these efforts will be released for viewing on TCM and possibly DVD.
As in the other 'Classic Horror' adaptations of the time this film has a certain look. Every studio had a 'look' for their efforts. Grimy streets for Warner Brothers gangster films, pristine palaces and with C. B. DeMille, washrooms at Paramount. M.G.M. all gloss and polish in almost every production and R.K.O. art-deco grace. With Universal, decrepit buildings, cobwebs, drawing rooms with lots of stuff to knock over with crisp cinematography.
For details of the plot either watch the film or read one of the other reviewers, they give a blow by blow description and plenty of detail, more is not needed here. What can be said it is too bad that for some reason Universal keeps these films buried in their vaults along with some 600 films from Paramounts classic period. Shown today on TCM (12/05/2011) this is the first time I can recall seeing it since the early 1960s! It does not disappoint, the print being in excellent condition. Hopefully more of these efforts will be released for viewing on TCM and possibly DVD.
A Masterful Adaptation of Dickens' Darkest Novel
kidboots16 June 2010
Warning: Spoilers
During the thirties film studios in Hollywood were going "classics crazy". Even poverty row studios such as Monogram were having a go as they plundered literary classics and bought out their own versions of "The Moonstone" (1934), "Jane Eyre" (1934)(beautiful Virginia Bruce was Jane Eyre) and "Oliver Twist" (1933) with Dickie Moore in the title role. It was only fitting that Universal, home of the horror movie, should tackle "Mystery of Edwin Drood" (although at the time they could not afford such a costly production) and with a plot involving murder, violence and drug addiction it was one of Charles Dickens darkest novels. It was unfinished at the time of Dickens' death - he had only finished 6 chapters of a 12 chapter serialization and no attempt was made to finish it.
It was an ideal story for Universal's latest sensation - an actor who was to excel in some splendidly malevolent roles - Claude Rains. Respected choir master John Jasper (Claude Rains) has a secret - he is an opium addict and his warped dreams are all about Rosa Budd (Heather Angel). She has been engaged to Edwin Drood "Ned" (David Manners) since they were children and both of them are of the opinion that even though they feel only friendship toward each other, they may as well marry. The thought of their marriage is driving Jasper insane.
Helena (Valerie Hobson) and Neville Landless (Douglass Montgomery), brother and sister, are surprise visitors to the village. They have come to England from Ceylon to study at Mr. Crisparkles but they have come out under a cloud. Neville has a violent temper and the reason they were sent to England is that Neville took a knife to his stepfather - after his sister was severely beaten by him. That night, at a welcoming dinner, Rosa faints - there is something about Jasper that repels her. Later, that same night, when Neville feels that Edwin is not speaking of Rosa with respect, his temper gets the better of him and he draws a knife. Jasper, who swears to keep the incident a secret, sees a way of making trouble and spreads the story throughout the village, giving Neville a reputation as hot tempered. Rosa and "Ned" have now called off their engagement but when they seal their friendship with a kiss Jasper sees them and jealously plots his revenge. "Ned" goes missing on the night of a fierce storm and Neville is bought in - he has just started a walking tour.
This is just a terrific film and the ending concocted by scenarists John Balderston and Grace Unger met with universal approval from Dickens' fans, who thought it remained faithful to the novel's original intentions. Even though many of the colourful characters were left out due to the film's shorter running time, Francis L. Sullivan is a standout as Mr. Crisparkle. Although it is clear Jasper murdered Edwin, finding out how he did it, how the body was disposed and how he was found out will have you on the edge of your seat.
If there was ever an actress who was born to play Victorian heroines, it was Heather Angel - she was absolutely gorgeous as Rosa Budd (even she makes a joke about the name in the film). I don't think Claude Rains was outshone by anyone in this film, I thought he was simply fantastic but he was definitely given a run for his money by Douglass Montgomery, who showed what he could do when given a role he could sink his teeth into. David Manners, who had never worn the mantle of movie star comfortably, was almost at the end of his career. Zeffie Tilbury gave a subdued performance as "the Opium Woman" - I was very surprised, considering the only time I have ever seen her - she was mugging for all she was worth in the ghastly "Mystery Liner" (1934).
Highly Recommended.
It was an ideal story for Universal's latest sensation - an actor who was to excel in some splendidly malevolent roles - Claude Rains. Respected choir master John Jasper (Claude Rains) has a secret - he is an opium addict and his warped dreams are all about Rosa Budd (Heather Angel). She has been engaged to Edwin Drood "Ned" (David Manners) since they were children and both of them are of the opinion that even though they feel only friendship toward each other, they may as well marry. The thought of their marriage is driving Jasper insane.
Helena (Valerie Hobson) and Neville Landless (Douglass Montgomery), brother and sister, are surprise visitors to the village. They have come to England from Ceylon to study at Mr. Crisparkles but they have come out under a cloud. Neville has a violent temper and the reason they were sent to England is that Neville took a knife to his stepfather - after his sister was severely beaten by him. That night, at a welcoming dinner, Rosa faints - there is something about Jasper that repels her. Later, that same night, when Neville feels that Edwin is not speaking of Rosa with respect, his temper gets the better of him and he draws a knife. Jasper, who swears to keep the incident a secret, sees a way of making trouble and spreads the story throughout the village, giving Neville a reputation as hot tempered. Rosa and "Ned" have now called off their engagement but when they seal their friendship with a kiss Jasper sees them and jealously plots his revenge. "Ned" goes missing on the night of a fierce storm and Neville is bought in - he has just started a walking tour.
This is just a terrific film and the ending concocted by scenarists John Balderston and Grace Unger met with universal approval from Dickens' fans, who thought it remained faithful to the novel's original intentions. Even though many of the colourful characters were left out due to the film's shorter running time, Francis L. Sullivan is a standout as Mr. Crisparkle. Although it is clear Jasper murdered Edwin, finding out how he did it, how the body was disposed and how he was found out will have you on the edge of your seat.
If there was ever an actress who was born to play Victorian heroines, it was Heather Angel - she was absolutely gorgeous as Rosa Budd (even she makes a joke about the name in the film). I don't think Claude Rains was outshone by anyone in this film, I thought he was simply fantastic but he was definitely given a run for his money by Douglass Montgomery, who showed what he could do when given a role he could sink his teeth into. David Manners, who had never worn the mantle of movie star comfortably, was almost at the end of his career. Zeffie Tilbury gave a subdued performance as "the Opium Woman" - I was very surprised, considering the only time I have ever seen her - she was mugging for all she was worth in the ghastly "Mystery Liner" (1934).
Highly Recommended.
Raines and bevy of rich Dickens characters carry Drood.
st-shot9 December 2011
Dickens unfinished novel is given a plausible outcome in this Universal version of The Mystery of Edwin Drood. Made in the same year as two MGM classics by Dickens, David Copperfield and Tale of Two Cities, it may lack their production values but it does have a hauntingly dark performance from Claude Rains as well as a cart full of Dickens characters splendidly played by some London stage vets.
Edwin Drood and Rosa Bud were engaged before they could talk but are more brother and sister than intendeds. His uncle John Jaspers, the Church choirmaster and pillar of the community is obsessed with Rosa, conversely he makes her skin crawl. When Neville Landless, a hot tempered Ceylonese arrives on the scene he falls for Rosa and argues with Edwin over her. The opium addicted Jaspers growing more paranoid by the minute decides to take drastic measures in order to secure Rosa for himself by eliminating his rivals.
In the early years of censorship Drood takes on a lot of controversial issues most pointedly opium addiction. Director Stuart Walker manages to ably convey its dilatory presence without mention or the appearance of the pipe by way of the dissipated personage of the raven eyed, mellifluously cold voice of Rains and the delicious harridan performance of opium den mother played by Zeffie Tillbury. Putting ample flesh on the rest of the cast EE Clive, Forester Harvey, Walter Kingsford and Ethel Griffes as Miss Twinkleton ("Crisis is a test of breeding ladies. Remember your Britains".) offer rich Dickens interpretations of comic manners providing Drood a lightness that balances Rains brooding madness. Lacking the pedigree and lushness of an MGM production The Mystery of Edwin Drood does just fine with less.
Edwin Drood and Rosa Bud were engaged before they could talk but are more brother and sister than intendeds. His uncle John Jaspers, the Church choirmaster and pillar of the community is obsessed with Rosa, conversely he makes her skin crawl. When Neville Landless, a hot tempered Ceylonese arrives on the scene he falls for Rosa and argues with Edwin over her. The opium addicted Jaspers growing more paranoid by the minute decides to take drastic measures in order to secure Rosa for himself by eliminating his rivals.
In the early years of censorship Drood takes on a lot of controversial issues most pointedly opium addiction. Director Stuart Walker manages to ably convey its dilatory presence without mention or the appearance of the pipe by way of the dissipated personage of the raven eyed, mellifluously cold voice of Rains and the delicious harridan performance of opium den mother played by Zeffie Tillbury. Putting ample flesh on the rest of the cast EE Clive, Forester Harvey, Walter Kingsford and Ethel Griffes as Miss Twinkleton ("Crisis is a test of breeding ladies. Remember your Britains".) offer rich Dickens interpretations of comic manners providing Drood a lightness that balances Rains brooding madness. Lacking the pedigree and lushness of an MGM production The Mystery of Edwin Drood does just fine with less.
Great Rains Performances but Too Slow in Spots
Michael_Elliott11 September 2012
Mystery of Edwin Drood (1935)
** 1/2 (out of 4)
This Universal film gets called by some one of their horror pictures but I think that's a tad bit off from the truth as it's certainly more melodrama. In the film Claude Rains plays an opium addicted choirmaster who falls in love with a woman (Heather Angel) who just happens to belong to his nephew (David Manners). The woman is loved by a third man (Douglass Montgomery) willing to kill whoever gets in his way and soon the nephew goes missing. MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD is based on an unfinished novel by Charles Dickens. It was unfinished because the legend actually died while writing it so the ending here is something the screenwriter came up with on his own. The film isn't a bad movie by any stretch of the imagination but in the end I think it's way too slow and boring in parts and not to mention that it takes forever to really get going. The biggest problem is the pacing from director Stuart Walker who never really seems to get control of the film. It contains way too many slow spots and I think aspects of the drug usage was trimmed to avoid any trouble with the production code. Even the ending features a shot that seems to have been cut back but I won't ruin it. What keeps the film watchable is the performance by Rains who has no troubled playing the obsessed man and I think he's quite believable in the part. Manners, Angel and Montgomery are also good in their parts and we also get to see Valerie Hobson who the same year was in BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN. Speaking of that James Whale classic, this film shares many of the same sets, which is fun for fans to spot.
** 1/2 (out of 4)
This Universal film gets called by some one of their horror pictures but I think that's a tad bit off from the truth as it's certainly more melodrama. In the film Claude Rains plays an opium addicted choirmaster who falls in love with a woman (Heather Angel) who just happens to belong to his nephew (David Manners). The woman is loved by a third man (Douglass Montgomery) willing to kill whoever gets in his way and soon the nephew goes missing. MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD is based on an unfinished novel by Charles Dickens. It was unfinished because the legend actually died while writing it so the ending here is something the screenwriter came up with on his own. The film isn't a bad movie by any stretch of the imagination but in the end I think it's way too slow and boring in parts and not to mention that it takes forever to really get going. The biggest problem is the pacing from director Stuart Walker who never really seems to get control of the film. It contains way too many slow spots and I think aspects of the drug usage was trimmed to avoid any trouble with the production code. Even the ending features a shot that seems to have been cut back but I won't ruin it. What keeps the film watchable is the performance by Rains who has no troubled playing the obsessed man and I think he's quite believable in the part. Manners, Angel and Montgomery are also good in their parts and we also get to see Valerie Hobson who the same year was in BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN. Speaking of that James Whale classic, this film shares many of the same sets, which is fun for fans to spot.
Fine acting and good story
lora6416 August 2007
Excellent - just excellent! Finally I got to view this movie and am glad I acquired the tape. I need not explain all the details of the story since others have done such a good job of it already.
Am a great fan of Claude Rains so it was interesting to see him here as a younger man and a very good actor at that.
I was really surprised about Douglass Montgomery who plays the role of young Neville Landless faultlessly, and then to see him also reappear in a secondary role halfway through the film as an elderly stranger, Dick Datcherly, who comes into town and rents a room. What struck me most about Datcherly's appearance was his mannerisms and way of speaking, the nose, the long beard - I immediately recognized a striking resemblance to Fagin, played by Alec Guinness, in "Oliver Twist" (1946), as it was identical right down to the rasping voice. I'm sure Alec G. need only have taken one look at this characterization of Datcherly and he'd have found his clue to Fagin's appearance, they are so much the same! The story moves along very well, kept my interest, no dull moments, in my opinion. I was captivated by such a fine integrated performance from all the actors. It's my kind of movie!
Am a great fan of Claude Rains so it was interesting to see him here as a younger man and a very good actor at that.
I was really surprised about Douglass Montgomery who plays the role of young Neville Landless faultlessly, and then to see him also reappear in a secondary role halfway through the film as an elderly stranger, Dick Datcherly, who comes into town and rents a room. What struck me most about Datcherly's appearance was his mannerisms and way of speaking, the nose, the long beard - I immediately recognized a striking resemblance to Fagin, played by Alec Guinness, in "Oliver Twist" (1946), as it was identical right down to the rasping voice. I'm sure Alec G. need only have taken one look at this characterization of Datcherly and he'd have found his clue to Fagin's appearance, they are so much the same! The story moves along very well, kept my interest, no dull moments, in my opinion. I was captivated by such a fine integrated performance from all the actors. It's my kind of movie!
A Bit Caustic, but Memorable
KatharineFanatic10 June 2002
John Jasper is a respectable choir master on the upper level, but beneath lurks a madman, an opium-addicted man of intrigue and deception with a deadly fascination for a young girl, Rosa Bud, who is engaged to his nephew, Edwin Drood. The marriage has been arranged from the crib, and neither Rosa nor Edwin (who is fondly called "Ned") are particularly fond of the idea, having resolved themselves to wed someday, simply because they must. Rosa is a young learner of music, and is fearful of her instructor -- John Jasper -- while her fiancé mere laughs off her uncertainty.
However, a wrench is thrown into the works when charming foreigner Neville and his lovely sister come to town, and the former immediately falls passionately in love with Rosa. Ned is flippant of his opinion of his would-be-wife, and Jasper just barely saves his nephew from Neville's violent temper, which manifests in the foreigner nearly taking a knife to them both. Having been sent away from his hometown for just such an act (and in fact, murdering his stepfather), Neville must watch his steps, and avoid Ned and Rosa at all costs, lest his anger again surface.
About this time, it is discovered that their betrothal hinges only on their personal desire to love one another, resulting in the breaking of the engagement. But Rosa and Ned decide to keep it to themselves for the present... a mistake that cannot be altered when Ned disappears, and his murder is blamed on young Neville, who was the last to see him. Jasper begins an all-out manhunt for the killer when Neville flees for his own safety, and will stop at nothing to have what he wants. In the meantime, Rosa is terrified of her music teacher, and what dangers he may impress upon her, even resorting to blackmail to gain her hand in marriage. But a mysterious stranger has come to town and is slowly unraveling the truth to "The Mystery of Edwin Drood."
This screen adaptation makes up an ending to the famous Dickens novel which was never finished... leaving scholars and fans alike pondering the mystery that would never be solved... until now, The sad thing about this old "horror" picture is the fact that you can guess "whodunit" within the first twenty minutes. But gauging it against the other productions of the era, it's really quite good. The acting is first-rate, and the costuming is beautiful -- if only it were in color! The characters are all engaging, and the film has enough suspense to engage even the most action-loving viewer.
However, a wrench is thrown into the works when charming foreigner Neville and his lovely sister come to town, and the former immediately falls passionately in love with Rosa. Ned is flippant of his opinion of his would-be-wife, and Jasper just barely saves his nephew from Neville's violent temper, which manifests in the foreigner nearly taking a knife to them both. Having been sent away from his hometown for just such an act (and in fact, murdering his stepfather), Neville must watch his steps, and avoid Ned and Rosa at all costs, lest his anger again surface.
About this time, it is discovered that their betrothal hinges only on their personal desire to love one another, resulting in the breaking of the engagement. But Rosa and Ned decide to keep it to themselves for the present... a mistake that cannot be altered when Ned disappears, and his murder is blamed on young Neville, who was the last to see him. Jasper begins an all-out manhunt for the killer when Neville flees for his own safety, and will stop at nothing to have what he wants. In the meantime, Rosa is terrified of her music teacher, and what dangers he may impress upon her, even resorting to blackmail to gain her hand in marriage. But a mysterious stranger has come to town and is slowly unraveling the truth to "The Mystery of Edwin Drood."
This screen adaptation makes up an ending to the famous Dickens novel which was never finished... leaving scholars and fans alike pondering the mystery that would never be solved... until now, The sad thing about this old "horror" picture is the fact that you can guess "whodunit" within the first twenty minutes. But gauging it against the other productions of the era, it's really quite good. The acting is first-rate, and the costuming is beautiful -- if only it were in color! The characters are all engaging, and the film has enough suspense to engage even the most action-loving viewer.
It starts off VERY slow....stick with this one.
planktonrules5 December 2011
Warning: Spoilers
If you watch this film, FORCE YOURSELF NOT TO TURN IT OFF! Several times in the first few minutes I'd contemplated turning it off, as the film definitely started very slowly and felt a bit stilted. Fortunately, it improved--and the final half hour was terrific. Stick with this one.
The film begins with Mr. Jasper (Claude Rains) hanging out in an opium den! Yet, when he leaves, he assumes a very respectable veneer and few would suspect that he's a major screwball. No, to outward appearances, he's a respectable gentleman and the last anyone would suspect of wickedness-- few, other than his niece, that is. She thinks he's a creepy man who is casting lustful glances her way. And, she's right--he wants her and in the worst way. However, Rosa Bud (yes, that is the character's name!) is engaged to marry Japser's nephew--Edwin Drood. And when Drood disappears and Jasper begins telling everyone his nephew is dead, suspicion falls on an innocent man, Landless (Douglass Montgomery). As the innocent man sees that the deck is stacked against him, he disappears and only comes back later in disguise--in order to investigate the crime himself. See the film to see what happens next.
It seems that Charles Dickens died before he finished this, his final story. But, as people loved Dickens, it's not surprising several film studios decided to finish his story and make the film. In this case, it's never really in doubt that Rains was the killer--but in the book this was not the case. In fact, there's good evidence to suggest that Dickens had intended for Drood to return--alive and in one piece! But, even if this isn't Dickens' vision, the folks at Universal did weave a good story--and the best was the latter portion that Dickens did NOT put on paper. Well done all around--with a particularly noteworthy performance by Montgomery--who, oddly, did much better in his alter-ego than when he was playing a normal character! A few things to look for in the film include: the ridiculously melodious voice coming out of Rains when he sang which obviously is NOT his, Will Geer in a tiny role as a lamplighter 53 minutes into the movie and the lovely sets which were recycled from the latest Frankenstein movie!! Well worth seeing.
The film begins with Mr. Jasper (Claude Rains) hanging out in an opium den! Yet, when he leaves, he assumes a very respectable veneer and few would suspect that he's a major screwball. No, to outward appearances, he's a respectable gentleman and the last anyone would suspect of wickedness-- few, other than his niece, that is. She thinks he's a creepy man who is casting lustful glances her way. And, she's right--he wants her and in the worst way. However, Rosa Bud (yes, that is the character's name!) is engaged to marry Japser's nephew--Edwin Drood. And when Drood disappears and Jasper begins telling everyone his nephew is dead, suspicion falls on an innocent man, Landless (Douglass Montgomery). As the innocent man sees that the deck is stacked against him, he disappears and only comes back later in disguise--in order to investigate the crime himself. See the film to see what happens next.
It seems that Charles Dickens died before he finished this, his final story. But, as people loved Dickens, it's not surprising several film studios decided to finish his story and make the film. In this case, it's never really in doubt that Rains was the killer--but in the book this was not the case. In fact, there's good evidence to suggest that Dickens had intended for Drood to return--alive and in one piece! But, even if this isn't Dickens' vision, the folks at Universal did weave a good story--and the best was the latter portion that Dickens did NOT put on paper. Well done all around--with a particularly noteworthy performance by Montgomery--who, oddly, did much better in his alter-ego than when he was playing a normal character! A few things to look for in the film include: the ridiculously melodious voice coming out of Rains when he sang which obviously is NOT his, Will Geer in a tiny role as a lamplighter 53 minutes into the movie and the lovely sets which were recycled from the latest Frankenstein movie!! Well worth seeing.
A Magnificent Obsession
lugonian26 March 2017
THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD (Universal, 1935), directed by Stuart Walker, is a complete motion picture taken from an incomplete final story written by Charles Dickens (1812-1870). Being Universal's second contribution to Dickens' novels captured on film, the first being the little known nor seen GREAT EXPEXCTATIONS (1934) starring Henry Hull and Phillips Holmes, also directed by Stuart Walker, EDWIN DROOD contains many performers in the cast usually associated with horror movies of recent years, which somewhat explains why this production is often part of fright night/shock theater on commercial television during the 1960s and 1970s, as well as distribution on video cassette in 1996 as part of Universal Horror Classics. Bearing a fine cast of Claude Rains ("The Invisible Man" 1933); David Manners ("Dracula" (1931), "The Mummy" (1932) and "The Black Cat" (1934)); Valerie Hobson (1935 "Bride of Frankenstein" and "Werewolf of London"); E.E. Clive and Forrester Harvey (both from "The Invisible Man" and others), one cannot help but assume this to be a horror film. Though there are no monsters nor mad scientists involved, there is the frightening presence of an insanely jealous choirmaster who happens to be an opium addict (Rains), but its basically a story of jealousy and mystery story with a surprise twist.
Set in 19th century England, the story revolves around John Jasper (Claude Rains), a cathedral choirmaster of Cloisteram desperately in love with his music pupil, Rosa Bud (Heather Angel), a beautiful girl just turned 18, engaged to marry his 21-year-old nephew, Edwin "Ned" Drood (David Manners). Entering the scene are Neville Landless (Douglass Montgomery), and his sister, Helena (Valerie Hobson), arriving from Ceylon on a carriage to live under the wing of the Rev. Mr. Crisparkle (Francis L. Sullivan) and his wife (Louise Carter). Neville meets and immediately falls in love with Rosa, which leads to heated anger and near fights between the two men. Neville finds Edwin's vanity intolerable and not worthy of Rosa's hand in marriage. With a reputation of having a violent temper, as told to Crisparkle, Neville, in a drunken rage, takes a knife to Edwin, but holds back his anger and goes away. Realizing he is right in his assumption, Edwin breaks his engagement to Rosa, with Edwin and Neville later parting simply as friends. Jasper, unaware about the broken engagement, spots Ned kissing Rosa as they part company, assuming their embrace to be love and affection. With careful planning, Jasper murders Ned on Christmas Eve. The following day Jasper reports Ned missing to the authorities and accuses Neville of his nephew's murder, even though Ned's body has yet to be found. While all the evidence is now against Neville, especially after leaving town and adding to his "guilt," Jasper posts a $200 pound reward on Neville's return and arrest. Later a mysterious white haired/-bearded old man named Mr. Thackeray arrives, arousing suspicion to John Jasper as to why this mysterious old man is so much interested in the mystery of Edwin Drood.
Others seen in the cast include Zeffie Tilbury (the opium den hag who predicts harm will come to anyone by the name of "Ned"); E.E. Clive (Mayor Thomas Sapsea); Walter Kingsford (Grengious, Rosa's guardian); Forrester Harvey (Durdles); Georgie Ernest (The Boy Deputy); J.M. Kerrigan (Chief Vergon Tope); and Ethel Griffies (Miss Twinkledon). Look quickly for Walter Brennan appearing briefly as the cockney town gossip. Claude Rains is perfectly cast in the lead as John Jasper, the one whom Rosa Bud (Heather Angel) describes as one "haunting her thoughts like a dreadful ghost." Much of the story rightfully belongs to Montgomery, as the accused, who goes to extreme measures to clear himself of a crime for which he is innocent. While Hobson has little to do as Angel's roommate and companion, the story is also helped by the angelic beauty of Heather Angel and Edward Ward's stock background music.
It's a wonder had Charles Dickens lived to complete his novel of "The Mystery of Edwin Drood," would he have come up with a surprise twist ending as depicted in this motion picture or something completely different? It's also a wonder how the 1914 silent screen adaptation to the same story was handled? Notably the novel had been completed and published in 1980 by another author over century after Dickens' death, yet this climax itself is enough to indicate its satisfying conclusion. Regardless the familiar background settings used in other horror films produced at the same time, this production does capture the essence of Gothic 19th century England and anything else associated with Dickens' work.
Nearly forgotten through the absence from television revivals in later years, THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD did surface again on Turner Classic Movies (TCM premiere: December 5, 2011), and later on DVD as part of Universal's Vault Collection, the movie itself is a worthy rediscovery to an outlook of now forgotten films outside Frankenstein, Dracula or The Werewolf productions produced by Carl Laemmle's for which Universal is known for today. (***)
Set in 19th century England, the story revolves around John Jasper (Claude Rains), a cathedral choirmaster of Cloisteram desperately in love with his music pupil, Rosa Bud (Heather Angel), a beautiful girl just turned 18, engaged to marry his 21-year-old nephew, Edwin "Ned" Drood (David Manners). Entering the scene are Neville Landless (Douglass Montgomery), and his sister, Helena (Valerie Hobson), arriving from Ceylon on a carriage to live under the wing of the Rev. Mr. Crisparkle (Francis L. Sullivan) and his wife (Louise Carter). Neville meets and immediately falls in love with Rosa, which leads to heated anger and near fights between the two men. Neville finds Edwin's vanity intolerable and not worthy of Rosa's hand in marriage. With a reputation of having a violent temper, as told to Crisparkle, Neville, in a drunken rage, takes a knife to Edwin, but holds back his anger and goes away. Realizing he is right in his assumption, Edwin breaks his engagement to Rosa, with Edwin and Neville later parting simply as friends. Jasper, unaware about the broken engagement, spots Ned kissing Rosa as they part company, assuming their embrace to be love and affection. With careful planning, Jasper murders Ned on Christmas Eve. The following day Jasper reports Ned missing to the authorities and accuses Neville of his nephew's murder, even though Ned's body has yet to be found. While all the evidence is now against Neville, especially after leaving town and adding to his "guilt," Jasper posts a $200 pound reward on Neville's return and arrest. Later a mysterious white haired/-bearded old man named Mr. Thackeray arrives, arousing suspicion to John Jasper as to why this mysterious old man is so much interested in the mystery of Edwin Drood.
Others seen in the cast include Zeffie Tilbury (the opium den hag who predicts harm will come to anyone by the name of "Ned"); E.E. Clive (Mayor Thomas Sapsea); Walter Kingsford (Grengious, Rosa's guardian); Forrester Harvey (Durdles); Georgie Ernest (The Boy Deputy); J.M. Kerrigan (Chief Vergon Tope); and Ethel Griffies (Miss Twinkledon). Look quickly for Walter Brennan appearing briefly as the cockney town gossip. Claude Rains is perfectly cast in the lead as John Jasper, the one whom Rosa Bud (Heather Angel) describes as one "haunting her thoughts like a dreadful ghost." Much of the story rightfully belongs to Montgomery, as the accused, who goes to extreme measures to clear himself of a crime for which he is innocent. While Hobson has little to do as Angel's roommate and companion, the story is also helped by the angelic beauty of Heather Angel and Edward Ward's stock background music.
It's a wonder had Charles Dickens lived to complete his novel of "The Mystery of Edwin Drood," would he have come up with a surprise twist ending as depicted in this motion picture or something completely different? It's also a wonder how the 1914 silent screen adaptation to the same story was handled? Notably the novel had been completed and published in 1980 by another author over century after Dickens' death, yet this climax itself is enough to indicate its satisfying conclusion. Regardless the familiar background settings used in other horror films produced at the same time, this production does capture the essence of Gothic 19th century England and anything else associated with Dickens' work.
Nearly forgotten through the absence from television revivals in later years, THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD did surface again on Turner Classic Movies (TCM premiere: December 5, 2011), and later on DVD as part of Universal's Vault Collection, the movie itself is a worthy rediscovery to an outlook of now forgotten films outside Frankenstein, Dracula or The Werewolf productions produced by Carl Laemmle's for which Universal is known for today. (***)
The tragedy of frustrated love which jealousy fatally gets the better of
clanciai9 October 2019
The film has taken great pains to do the Dickens moods justice in the cathedral corridors and cryptic vaults, with fogs and choir boys, and Claude Rains enhances the realism of the Dickens spirit. This was Dickens' last novel and left unfinished, but after the last chapter it's already obvious who the murderer is, and the film adaptations, especially this, have simply followed the logical consequences of Dickens' hints. When you have read the novel you must draw the conclusion, that it was unnecessary for Dickens to finish it, and that's maybe why Dickens just didn't - the main thing had already been told.
The Jasper figure is one of Dickens' eeriest and most debatable characters, a church singer in Christian service who leads a double life, and the novel and story seems to be something of an effort to probe into the phenomenon of double characters with double lives. He actually loves his nephew and his becoming bride, but he is so infatuated with the bride and frustrated by his personal sexual shortcomings that he is on the verge of a breakdown and falls to the temptation of losing control - which he finds reason to bitterly regret afterwards. So the novel is actually a tragedy, and the film follows suit and takes the consequences at full length - at which Dickens himself hesitated and died.
Both the novel and Claude Rains make the Jasper figure unforgettable.
The Jasper figure is one of Dickens' eeriest and most debatable characters, a church singer in Christian service who leads a double life, and the novel and story seems to be something of an effort to probe into the phenomenon of double characters with double lives. He actually loves his nephew and his becoming bride, but he is so infatuated with the bride and frustrated by his personal sexual shortcomings that he is on the verge of a breakdown and falls to the temptation of losing control - which he finds reason to bitterly regret afterwards. So the novel is actually a tragedy, and the film follows suit and takes the consequences at full length - at which Dickens himself hesitated and died.
Both the novel and Claude Rains make the Jasper figure unforgettable.
Brilliant Claude Rains performance
jarrodmcdonald-11 October 2022
Warning: Spoilers
The original source material for this film comes from Charles Dickens' last work which was incomplete at the time of his death. There is much speculation regarding how the author would have finished the story, which was one of his darkest and most nihilistic works of fiction. Universal played up the novel's non-ending when advertising the film which arrives at its own conclusion.
Claude Rains was not the first choice to play the opium addicted choir master who becomes obsessed with a young woman. The studio initially wanted Boris Karloff who was not available. Interestingly Karloff was also the first choice when the studio was casting THE INVISIBLE MAN two years earlier. But a falling out between Karloff and director James Whale prevented that. So on two separate occasions Rains stepped in for Karloff. Karloff would return the favor when Rains was unable to appear in Universal's proposed sequel for PHANTOM OF THE OPERA which became known as THE CLIMAX (1944).
Back to Edwin Drood. David Manners portrays the title character. Though some articles online claim this was Manners' last film, that is not true; he would appear in five more pictures.
Manners has substantially less screen time than everyone else since Drood vanishes in the second half, which gives us our mystery. Where has he gone, what has happened to him, was he murdered?, etc. These are the questions left dangling by Dickens' unfinished manuscript.
In addition to Rains and Manners, there are other distinguished members in the cast. Drood's girl is played by Heather Angel, and Douglass Montgomery is cast as a rival for her affections.
British actress Valerie Hobson is also on hand as another young lass. The performers are assisted by ornate sets that provide a melodramatic, Gothic quality. The studio allocated a sizable budget for this production, and it shows.
When Rains suggests that Manners has been murdered by Montgomery's character, Montgomery also disappears- but then returns in a disguised form to investigate what really happened.
The choir master is the culprit in this version, but of course, Dickens may have intended for him to be "innocent" after all...if Drood was meant to turn up alive and well at the end. We'll never know. But we do know that in this version, making Rains the villain is a laudable choice...he's an expert at playing deranged behavior with a flair. His performance in THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD is absolutely brilliant.
Claude Rains was not the first choice to play the opium addicted choir master who becomes obsessed with a young woman. The studio initially wanted Boris Karloff who was not available. Interestingly Karloff was also the first choice when the studio was casting THE INVISIBLE MAN two years earlier. But a falling out between Karloff and director James Whale prevented that. So on two separate occasions Rains stepped in for Karloff. Karloff would return the favor when Rains was unable to appear in Universal's proposed sequel for PHANTOM OF THE OPERA which became known as THE CLIMAX (1944).
Back to Edwin Drood. David Manners portrays the title character. Though some articles online claim this was Manners' last film, that is not true; he would appear in five more pictures.
Manners has substantially less screen time than everyone else since Drood vanishes in the second half, which gives us our mystery. Where has he gone, what has happened to him, was he murdered?, etc. These are the questions left dangling by Dickens' unfinished manuscript.
In addition to Rains and Manners, there are other distinguished members in the cast. Drood's girl is played by Heather Angel, and Douglass Montgomery is cast as a rival for her affections.
British actress Valerie Hobson is also on hand as another young lass. The performers are assisted by ornate sets that provide a melodramatic, Gothic quality. The studio allocated a sizable budget for this production, and it shows.
When Rains suggests that Manners has been murdered by Montgomery's character, Montgomery also disappears- but then returns in a disguised form to investigate what really happened.
The choir master is the culprit in this version, but of course, Dickens may have intended for him to be "innocent" after all...if Drood was meant to turn up alive and well at the end. We'll never know. But we do know that in this version, making Rains the villain is a laudable choice...he's an expert at playing deranged behavior with a flair. His performance in THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD is absolutely brilliant.
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