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Date Posted: 19:29:37 12/09/08 Tue
Author: Tim
Subject: Mystery of Edwin Drood (1935)

Mystery of Edwin Drood is an overlooked Universal gem from 1935, adapted from Charles Dickens final, unfinished novel. John Jasper (Claude Rains) is a respected Cathedral choirmaster in the community of Cloisterham, England during the Victorian era. Jasper has eyes for Rosa Bud (Heather Angel), but she is engaged to Jasper's 21 year old nephew, Edwin Drood (David Manners). The arrival of Neville Condliss (Douglass Montgomery) and his sister Helena (Valerie Hobson) presents additional complications, as Neville soon falls in love with Rosa.

While not a horror picture by definition, it is a passionate drama with dark and disturbing undercurrents. It is a lush production with many fine performances, including E.E. Clive's amusing portrayal of pompous mayor Thomas Sapsea ("No one has ever stayed missing since I was mayor..."). Unfortunately it was largely a box office failure, as was another Dickens adaptation, Great Expectations, the previous year. Some favorite moments include:

The opening sequence with a hazy John Jasper in a strange place. Initially I didn't realize what the woman there was selling.

Edwin Drood pays a call on his betrothed Rosa Bud at the Seminary.

Edwin Drood and Neville Condliss quarrel, and Neville pulls a knife.

Exaggerated gossip about the incident spreads though the town.

Edwin and Rosa decide to break off their engagement, which had been prearranged by their late parents when they were children.

Dundles leads Jasper through the crypts.

Young Christmas carolers serenade the night as a storm brews.

Jasper announces that his nephew Edwin Drood (who he calls "Ned") is missing, last seen with Neville Condliss.

An extensive search for Edwin Drood is conducted. Neville is a prime suspect in his disappearance.

Jasper admits to Rosa that he loves her, and offers to spare Neville from a murder charge if she will be his.

"Circumstantial evidence may accumulate so strongly even against an innocent man, that it may slay him"

Jasper revisits the opium den.

Datchery (actually a disguised Neville) tries to open the tomb and is confronted by Jasper.

The climax in the belfry.

Tim

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Replies:

[> Re: Mystery of Edwin Drood (1935) -- Rick, 05:28:31 12/11/08 Thu [1]

You posted an excellent review, Tim! Edward Ward's music score was great as well. Claude Rains got good reviews while the film didn't by the critics.




Rick


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