By Arthur B. Connor
Correspondent
It has been selected as one the world’s best films (regardless of category). It has been compared with the best efforts of any past literary endeavor (again, regardless of genre). It has been bent, spindled, folded, mutilated, diced, sliced, and spliced by the likes of everyone from Abbott and Costello to Andy Warhol in all of its 80-year existence, and has more than endured those and other tests of time.
“It,” of course, refers to the 1931 Carl Laemmle, Jr. cinematic production of Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley’s Gothic masterwork “Frankenstein.” The film is the brainchild of director James Whale, writers Garrett Fort, John Russell and (chiefly) Robert Florey, and makeup artist Jack Pierce.
Idyllwild has the opportunity of viewing this renowned classic Saturday, Nov. 5. The evening begins with a special introductory program featuring Sara Karloff, the offspring of the undoubted main attraction of the movie, the grim portrayer of the mad scientist’s creative effort, Boris Karloff (whose identification in the presentation’s credits is only a single question mark).
As the sole living progeny of Boris’ marriages, Sara Karloff comes to Idyllwild well prepared to answer questions regarding both the film and her illustrious father. She brings various items of related interest, including rare photographic memorabilia, including an original film — in color no less — of Karloff being made up as “the creature”, as well as her unique recollections.
The proceedings start at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5 at Caine Learning Center. As usual, Idyllwild’s Cafe Cinema presentation is free. Besides the film, patrons can gather together with host, Jeffrey Taylor, for various refreshments.
Special “Monster of Ceremonies” Mr. Charles Schlacks, who generally provides his living space for the usual weekly film offerings of the group, will introduce Sara Karloff. A very special time indeed is promised for all attendees.
