#1
Posted: 1/3/08 at 4:42pm
I recorded THE DEVIL DOLL a few nights ago and I'm watching it now. The similarities between the two stories are numerous, including the hero being sent to prison for a crime he did not commit. Sweeney went away for 15. Paul Lavond escaped after 17. Both have daughters. Both use a false name. Paul Lavond masquerades as a old woman, while Barker just goes by Sweeney. Both have a female accomplice. Instead of meat pies, Lavond shrinks his enemies to 1/6 of their size. Both stories are fueled by revenge.
Anyway, Lionel Barrymore gives a great performance as the bank owner turned toy maker. It's even a drag role! That's something I didn't think would happen in '36. There are some amazing special effects, too.
Another thing that makes it like Sweeney Todd is the horror with the humor. You can tell Lionel loved the scenes where he played the old woman.
Here's the poster.
Anyway, Lionel Barrymore gives a great performance as the bank owner turned toy maker. It's even a drag role! That's something I didn't think would happen in '36. There are some amazing special effects, too.
Another thing that makes it like Sweeney Todd is the horror with the humor. You can tell Lionel loved the scenes where he played the old woman.
Here's the poster.
"Writing is like prostitution. First, you do it for love, then you do it for a few friends, and finally you do it for money." ~ Moliere
Updated On: 1/3/08 at 04:42 PM
