I wanted to love Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948) but it was charming, not amazing. The draw here is our already-famous protagonists and a gallery of ghouls featuring the famous actors, including Bela Lugosi, who played Universal studio monsters Dracula, Frankenstein (Glenn Strange), and Wolfman (Lon Chaney). Slapstick ensues. The sets, lighting, and makeup are all A+, even if the hijinks by goofball Lou Costello can't carry the movie while straight-man Bud Abbott does his part.
For this one, you had to be in the era. Abbott and Costello at the peak of their career had a huge crossover hit, their most successful film by box office. In my mind I've traveled back to this famous pair's burlesque days, wildly laughing with a packed theater of fans. We're amazed at their most famous bit, Who's on First?
This was a terrific looking transfer for such an old film. Universal clearly gave this film the royal treatment. The tones and picture are lovely.
Check it off the list. This reminds me I better revisit Laurel and Hardy...
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