Svengoolie Season 9 Episode 1 The Old Dark House

The Old Dark House is the first episode of the ninth season of the popular horror TV show Svengoolie. The episode features a classic black-and-white horror film from 1932, directed by James Whale and starring Boris Karloff.

The story follows a group of travelers who seek refuge from a storm in a creepy old mansion in the Welsh countryside. Once inside, they encounter a bizarre and dysfunctional family, including a mute, pyromaniac brother and a sinister sister who seems to be hiding a dark secret. As the night wears on, tensions rise and deadly traps are set, leading to a series of spine-chilling twists and turns that keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

Boris Karloff gives a standout performance as Morgan, the brutish butler with a twisted sense of humor and a knack for locking doors. His scenes with a young Gloria Stuart (who later went on to star in James Cameron's Titanic) are particularly memorable, as he taunts and teases her with a creepy smile that sends shivers down the spine.

The rest of the ensemble cast is equally impressive, with Melvyn Douglas as the jaded and cynical hero, Raymond Massey as his idealistic and naive companion, Charles Laughton as the eccentric patriarch of the family, and Eva Moore as his boozy, overbearing sister. Together, they create a highly entertaining and engaging group of characters who each bring their own quirks and flaws to the story.

Director James Whale, who also directed the classic horror films Frankenstein and The Bride of Frankenstein, brings his signature blend of humor and horror to The Old Dark House, creating a unique and memorable cinematic experience that has stood the test of time. His use of shadows, lighting, and camera angles is masterful, and he knows exactly when to ratchet up the tension and when to release it with a well-timed joke or sight gag.

Svengoolie, the show's host, provides his usual mix of trivia, jokes, and bad puns throughout the episode, adding to the fun and campiness of the experience. Fans of the show will appreciate his inclusion of classic horror movie clips and music, as well as his playful banter with the audience.

Overall, The Old Dark House is a must-watch for horror fans and classic movie buffs alike. With its memorable cast of characters, clever twists and turns, and expert direction by James Whale, it is sure to keep viewers entertained and enthralled from beginning to end.