The true foundations of the horror genre were solidified in the early 1930s, thanks to iconic monster movies such as Universal's Dracula, Frankenstein, The Mummy, and The Invisible Man. These cinematic classics not only shaped the industry but also paved the way for countless sequels and remakes, all seeking to capture the same magic and terror that made the originals unforgettable. While some of these subsequent films succeeded in carrying the torch of horror excellence, few could match the raw power and long-lasting influence of their predecessors.
The success and staying power of Universal's classic horror movies could only be matched by a few films. Among the best contenders was Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, a film that instilled discomfort by putting the darkest parts of human nature on display, while the protagonist tried desperately to suppress his primal desires.
King Kong captivated audiences with groundbreaking special effects, and has remained relevant alongside classic monster flicks a century later. 1930s filmmakers had an odd obsession with gorillas, featuring them prominently in other films like Murders in the Rue Morgue, The Gorilla, Ingagi, The Monster Walks, etc. This trope would also continue into the 1940s. Why Monsters?
Monsters and science fiction reigned supreme in the horror scene of the 1930s, overshadowing more grounded films like The Most Dangerous Game, The Old Dark House, and Murders in the Zoo. These latter films, while great in their own right, were consistently eclipsed by the blockbuster appeal of monstrous tales. The question arises: why did 1930s moviegoers gravitate so intensely towards monsters?
Perhaps examining the historical context could answer that question. The Great Depression and social unrest of the time had cast a cloud of anxiety and dread over society, akin to the eerie foreboding of monster classics like Dracula and Frankenstein. This looming fear of something beyond one's control wreaking havoc and upending life as it was known was a sentiment shared both in reality and on the silver screen. Monsters, with their ability to probe the audience's deepest fears and uncertainties, brought these anxieties to the surface, creating a visceral connection that resonated with the audience's collective consciousness.