Setting aside my fear of vampires, I sat down this weekend to watch The Vampire Bat (1933). To be fair, I felt safe in choosing this film because the blurb on the DVD package referred to a string of murders supposedly committed by a vampire . . . until the real culprit is revealed. That told me all I needed to know. No real vampires would be present.
The film is set in the usual small German village that seems to be a haven for vampires, werewolves, and other assorted monsters. Several murders have been committed involving two puncture marks on the victims' necks and a complete loss of blood. Clearly, a sign that vampires are at work.
Naturally, the prime suspect is a mentally-challenged young man who lives in the village. And plays with bats. "They're soft . . ."
Before long, a torch-wielding mob is formed to deal with the problem. But still the murders continue. So it's up to the local detective, providing the voice of reason, and his scientist girlfriend to uncover the truth. Which turns out to be even more frightening than vampires.
Like so many films from this era, The Vampire Bat begins and ends abruptly. But otherwise, this is a solid B-movie. Despite the ability to spot the real villain early on. The scientist girlfriend did not faint or scream hysterically, which was a pleasant surprise. And it ended on a fun note.
It's heart-warming to see the surviving characters able to laugh and crack jokes within mere seconds of the villain's demise. Emotionally healthy, I think.