Horror Classics Triple Feature, Vol. 2 (Dr. Syn / King of the Zombies / The Vampire Bat)

Rating:
Summary: Poor Print Quality
Review: Having been a fan of all things Dr Syn since my teens (30 years plus) and having the video of this film I was pleased to see it's appearance on DVD.
However I have to express my disappointment at the quality of the print used for this edition. It is very grainy and full of "scratch marks" from the portion I have so far watched.
My video print of this film is far superior and I am now hoping for a UK release (where I am based) of this taken from the print used for the video.
The film is still an enjoyable romp through the Dymchurch Marshes and anything that promotes DR Syn should be encouraged.
Here's waiting for Disney to release their version "The Scarecrow" on DVD.

Rating:
Summary: You get what you pay for
Review: The first film, Dr. Syn, is a fun, old-style, British mystery set in Kent in 1800. A good film, but, a less than perfect print. The transfer is a touch misframed and there are scratches throughout. On the plus side, the dialogue is always understandable and the film appears complete. The second feature, The Vampire Bat, is a good example of a 1930's American "B" picture. An OK film, but, again, the print is in bad shape. At least the framing appears correct and the sound adequate. However, there also looks to be a ten minute chunk missing from the film's middle. While it doesn't render the story incomprehensible it doesn't help either. The final movie, ironically, is the weakest of the group in terms of story, but, the print is in by far the best shape. The contrast is good; the framing appears complete and the film isn't missing any footage. However, the zombie on a Caribbean island story is very dated. Also, I think the picture's racist elements appeared a bit over-the-top even during its initial release in 1941. If you find racial stereotypes offensive avoid this film. I guarantee it will never play again on television. All in all, good value for the money if you accept the limitations of the source material. This isn't The Criterion Collection.

Rating:
Summary: Dr. Syn??
Review: This triple feature is so-so. I enjoyed "Dr. Syn", but failed to find any horror in it whatsoever. I recommend it as a good old movie, but not as a scary one. I have no idea why it is included in this collection. As for "King Of The Zombies", well, let's just say it's pretty weak. It has it's humorous moments, both intentional and unintentional, but fails to give even one good shudder. The "zombies" are about as frightening as those in a Scooby Doo cartoon. Their "King" is not very menacing either. "The Vampire Bat" is the real deal. Dwight Frye is his old weird self and Faye Wray is great. Lionel Atwill is quite sinister. I recommend one movie out of the three...

Rating:
Summary: Dr. Syn??
Review: This triple feature is so-so. I enjoyed "Dr. Syn", but failed to find any horror in it whatsoever. I recommend it as a good old movie, but not as a scary one. I have no idea why it is included in this collection. As for "King Of The Zombies", well, let's just say it's pretty weak. It has it's humorous moments, both intentional and unintentional, but fails to give even one good shudder. The "zombies" are about as frightening as those in a Scooby Doo cartoon. Their "King" is not very menacing either. "The Vampire Bat" is the real deal. Dwight Frye is his old weird self and Faye Wray is great. Lionel Atwill is quite sinister. I recommend one movie out of the three...