Watch Phantom of the Rue Morgue

Phantom of the Rue Morgue is a classic horror film from 1954 that will send shivers down your spine. Starring Karl Malden, Claude Dauphin, and Patricia Medina, the movie is an adaptation of the famous novel "The Murders in the Rue Morgue" by Edgar Allan Poe. The story is set in Paris in the late 19th century. A series of brutal murders have been committed by a mysterious assailant, who leaves no clue or trace behind. The victims are all women, and their dead bodies are found mutilated and disfigured beyond recognition. The local police are baffled by the case, and they have no leads to go on.

Enter Dr. Marais (Karl Malden), a brilliant scientist and criminologist, who embarks on a quest to catch the killer. He is convinced that only someone with superior intelligence, like himself, can solve the case. His research leads him to a carnival sideshow, where he meets a troupe of performing apes, led by the enigmatic Erik (Claude Dauphin).

Erik is a mysterious figure, who keeps to himself and rarely speaks. Dr. Marais is intrigued by him, and he begins to suspect that Erik may be the killer he is looking for. He sets out to investigate Erik's background and discovers that he was a former convict, who has a history of violence and mental instability.

As the investigation progresses, Dr. Marais and Erik develop a strange relationship. Erik becomes obsessed with a beautiful young woman named Camille (Patricia Medina), who works at the carnival, and Dr. Marais begins to suspect that Erik may be the key to solving the case.

Phantom of the Rue Morgue is a gripping and atmospheric movie that captures the essence of Poe's macabre tale. The film is rich in suspenseful moments, with the tension building steadily until the shocking conclusion. The cinematography is superb, with dark and shadowy scenes that heighten the sense of danger and foreboding.

Karl Malden delivers a standout performance as the cerebral Dr. Marais. He brings a sense of gravitas and intelligence to the role, and his character's obsession with the case is palpable. Claude Dauphin is equally compelling as the silent and brooding Erik. He portrays the character's inner turmoil and psychological torment convincingly.

Patricia Medina is delightful as Camille, the object of Erik's affection. She brings a touch of warmth and humanity to the movie, and her scenes with Erik are some of the film's most poignant. The supporting cast is also excellent, with strong performances from everyone involved.

Overall, Phantom of the Rue Morgue is a must-see for fans of classic horror movies. It's a masterful adaptation of Poe's chilling tale, with stunning visuals and strong performances from the cast. If you enjoy suspenseful mysteries with a touch of the macabre, then this movie is definitely worth checking out.

Phantom of the Rue Morgue is a 1954 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.