The Cat and the Canary Reviews

The old dark house number, played to the hilt. When an eccentric millionaire dies, lawyer Zucco assembles prospective heirs at the victim's Bayou mansion. Goddard gets all, setting up Hope as straight man for this spooky comic romp. Hope is terrific as the wisecracking but spineless character who attempts to protect Goddard from going insane (if she turns cuckoo she loses the fortune, according to the bizarre will). Director Nugent, who had guided Hope through NEVER SAY DIE and GIVE ME A SAILOR, does a great job in presenting some spine-tingling moments: claw-like hands reach out for the heroine and everyone seems to disappear through swiveling bookcases, sliding doors, and false panels. Lang's camera work is properly moody and supporting player Sondergaard gives a high-camp performance as a spooky, mystic housekeeper dressed in black, with a black cat constantly at her side. This was Goddard's first starring role; following the success of this film, the sly actress with the insinuating voice was teamed with Hope again in THE GHOST BREAKERS.