The notoriety of The Thirteenth Chair (1929) often overshadows its substance. Its significance lies in it being Tod Browning’s initial venture into sound film and his first project with Bela Lugosi, events occurring just before the release of Dracula (1931). These aspects are what typically garner the most attention. Browning appears to be hampered by the limitations of early sound technology, resulting in a heavily theatrical production largely confined to one set and presented mostly through lengthy wide shots. The initial sequence, depicting a shadowy figure entering a building and nearly stepping on blood from a murder, is visually striking but represents one of the few moments of visual interest within an otherwise still film. Lugosi delivers an animated performance, speaking with considerably more speed and fervor than his later, somber portrayal in Dracula, suggesting that his iconic role was based on a previous stage interpretation. His dramatic exchanges with those suspected of wrongdoing are charged with emotion and a palpable sense of urgency. Among the other actors, John Davidson, as Edward Wales, distinguishes himself by embodying an unsettling intensity and aura of mystery appropriate to his character. Unfortunately, existing copies of the film suffer from faded colors and damage, making it difficult for contemporary audiences to fully grasp what's happening on screen. While a restoration could potentially improve things if suitable materials are available, this is not the lost gem of early sound horror that some might anticipate.

Source on TMDB