A strange and mesmerizing unsettling experience. This Edgar G. Ulmer-directed movie, featuring Boris Karloff and Bela Lugosi together for what might be considered their finest collaboration, is quite unusual. Inspired by a story from Edgar Allan Poe, The Black Cat introduces Peter & Joan Allison (played by David Manners and Julie Bishop), who encounter the enigmatic scientist Dr. Vitus Verdegast (Lugosi) while honeymooning in Budapest. After a bus accident leaves Joan hurt, they are taken to the home of Poelzig (Karloff), an old associate of Verdegast’s. The complicated history between these two men then emerges, creating considerable peril for the newlyweds. Ulmer's direction remains remarkably effective, and The Black Cat can still disturb audiences today. A pervasive feeling of dread permeates the film; Ulmer and his leading actors have created a powerful exploration of evil characters. With striking set design and a script that honors Poe’s work, tension steadily builds until it erupts in a violent and chaotic ending. Karloff and Lugosi are especially noteworthy (the chess scenes are particularly memorable), contributing to the movie's enduring appeal; Poelzig seems to be modeled after the actual occultist Aleister Crowley. The music, composed by renowned classical musicians, is also an unsettling presence throughout. It isn’t a perfect film, but it stands as a distinctive, intelligent, and significant entry in classic horror cinema. 7/10

Source on TMDB