The Corpse Vanishes (1942) is an American mystery‑horror film directed by Wallace Fox and starring Bela Lugosi. The story follows a mad scientist, Dr. Lorenz, who sends brides poisonous orchids that place them in a death‑like trance. He then steals their bodies to extract glandular fluids, which he uses to preserve the youth of his aging wife.
A determined journalist begins investigating the strange bridal disappearances, eventually uncovering Lorenz’s sinister experiments and the grotesque family that assists him. The film was produced and distributed by Monogram Pictures, a studio known for low‑budget genre films, and later reissued in 1949.
Film Details
Title: The Corpse Vanishes
Year: 1942
Genre: Mystery / Horror
Director: Wallace Fox
Producers: Sam Katzman, Jack Dietz
Writers: Harvey Gates (screenplay), Sam Robins & Gerald Schnitzer (story)
Starring:
Bela Lugosi as Dr. Lorenz
Luana Walters as Patricia Hunter
Tristram Coffin as Dr. Foster
Elizabeth Russell as Countess Lorenz
Minerva Urecal as Fagah
Cinematography: Arthur Reed
Edited by: Robert Golden
Music by: Johnny Lange, Lew Porter
Studio: Banner Productions
Distributed by: Monogram Pictures Corporation
Release Date: May 8, 1942
Runtime: 64 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
#TheCorpseVanishes1942 #BelaLugosi #WallaceFox #MonogramPictures #ClassicHorror #1940sCinema #MysteryHorror #CultFilm
A determined journalist begins investigating the strange bridal disappearances, eventually uncovering Lorenz’s sinister experiments and the grotesque family that assists him. The film was produced and distributed by Monogram Pictures, a studio known for low‑budget genre films, and later reissued in 1949.
Film Details
Title: The Corpse Vanishes
Year: 1942
Genre: Mystery / Horror
Director: Wallace Fox
Producers: Sam Katzman, Jack Dietz
Writers: Harvey Gates (screenplay), Sam Robins & Gerald Schnitzer (story)
Starring:
Bela Lugosi as Dr. Lorenz
Luana Walters as Patricia Hunter
Tristram Coffin as Dr. Foster
Elizabeth Russell as Countess Lorenz
Minerva Urecal as Fagah
Cinematography: Arthur Reed
Edited by: Robert Golden
Music by: Johnny Lange, Lew Porter
Studio: Banner Productions
Distributed by: Monogram Pictures Corporation
Release Date: May 8, 1942
Runtime: 64 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
#TheCorpseVanishes1942 #BelaLugosi #WallaceFox #MonogramPictures #ClassicHorror #1940sCinema #MysteryHorror #CultFilm
Category
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Short filmTranscript
00:00:00THE END
00:00:53And you, Phyllis Hamilton, do you take this man to be your legal, lawfully wedded husband
00:00:59to love, honor, and obey until death do you part?
00:01:05I do.
00:01:08It's faded, Dr. Rayburn.
00:01:16Take her into the ante room.
00:01:18Yes, sir.
00:01:26Dr. Rayburn, I'm Pat Hunter from the Chronicle.
00:01:29Please.
00:01:29This is no time for interviews.
00:01:31Shall I telephone for the ambulance?
00:01:34No.
00:01:35The undertaker.
00:01:36She's dead.
00:01:36That's a good idea.
00:02:17There you are, you can go now.
00:02:19Is that all?
00:02:21Gee, thanks.
00:02:29Good evening, Dr. Rayburn.
00:02:30I'm from the forest mortuary.
00:02:32Forest mortuary?
00:02:34Why, two of your men just drove away with the buddy a few moments ago.
00:02:37Well, there must be some mistake.
00:02:39There weren't our men.
00:02:40Well, I've heard of ambulance chasing, but this is something new.
00:02:43New? It's sensational.
00:02:44Another kidnapping of a dead bride.
00:02:46What a story.
00:03:06And a few minutes ago, one of the men who helped remove the body of the mysteriously dead bride was
00:03:12apprehended by the police.
00:03:13Go on, keep talking.
00:03:15Well, I'm, what I told you, I was standing on the corner, minding my own business, when along comes a
00:03:20step wagon.
00:03:21A guy poked his head out in the window and asked me if I want to make a couple of
00:03:24bucks.
00:03:25How many men were with that hearse?
00:03:26Two.
00:03:27At least all I could see.
00:03:28What'd they look like?
00:03:29I don't know.
00:03:31It was dark.
00:03:32I didn't pay no attention to faces.
00:03:33You noticed the license?
00:03:35What, with two bucks staring me in the face?
00:03:37Come on, tell the truth.
00:03:38What'd you do with the corpse?
00:03:40I didn't do nothing with it.
00:03:41What I tell you is the truth.
00:03:43Sir, help me.
00:03:55As district attorney, Mrs. Winsworth, I assure you there won't be any trouble.
00:03:58You can proceed, but the wedding is planned.
00:04:00Well, we want some assurance besides words.
00:04:03We want protection.
00:04:05I'll have plenty of men guarding the chapel.
00:04:07And if I'm any judge of the appearance of your daughter, she looks as healthy as she is beautiful.
00:04:12Well, really, Mother, I think you're making much ado about nothing.
00:04:15You're not worried, are you?
00:04:16Not in the least.
00:04:18Well, if we have protection, I'll feel much better about it.
00:04:22You'll have it all right, Mrs. Wentworth.
00:04:29Tell Jones and Riley to wait. I'll pick them up.
00:04:32That's the Wentworth mother and daughter, isn't it?
00:04:34Is the wedding called off?
00:04:35Certainly not, and there isn't going to be any trouble either.
00:04:38That's what all the rest of them thought.
00:04:39I can't answer for Miss Wentworth's help, but your paper can print one thing,
00:04:43and that is that there'll be no more theft of girls' bodies.
00:04:52Yeah.
00:04:53This will get you and Sandy into the wedding, and I want plenty of photographs.
00:04:56Oh, don't worry, boss.
00:04:57I got enough film to cover the Russian front.
00:04:59Oh, Mr. Keenan, you promised to take me off the society column.
00:05:03Oh, quit beeping. You're getting a break.
00:05:05This is the most exclusive wedding of the year.
00:05:07What if the Wentworth girl drops dead, too?
00:05:09You'll still tell me what she's wearing, along with the rest of the fancy pants.
00:05:13Get me the guest list, and don't bother about anything else.
00:05:16I've got three men working with the police, and there'll be plenty more thereabouts.
00:05:19If the bride pulls up this time, there won't be any snatching.
00:05:22Now get going.
00:05:23What if I get a clue?
00:05:24Oh, I wouldn't let that bother me, sweetie pie.
00:05:26You wouldn't know a clue if I'd bitch it.
00:05:29I'll remember those words, stooge.
00:05:39Why are you so nervous, Mother?
00:05:42After all, I'm the one that's getting married.
00:05:44Oh, I just can't help it.
00:05:46I'm so afraid something will go wrong.
00:05:49Forget it.
00:05:49Nothing can possibly happen.
00:05:54Oh, Alice!
00:05:55Oh, you look perfectly beautiful.
00:05:57Do I look all right?
00:05:58Oh, yes.
00:05:59Oh, I am, too.
00:06:02Have you seen Dwight?
00:06:03No.
00:06:07Make it snappy.
00:06:08We're late in this wedding.
00:06:09We'll wait for us.
00:06:10Can I help it if we had a blowout?
00:06:12Serves you right.
00:06:13Why don't you buy some new tires for this bus?
00:06:15You know, I've been thinking of getting some...
00:06:17Hey, are you kidding?
00:06:18Come on.
00:06:18Come on.
00:06:51Oh, Dwight!
00:06:52You mustn't come in here.
00:06:53It's bad luck.
00:06:54Oh, not even a peek?
00:06:55Not even one.
00:06:56You'll see me soon enough.
00:06:58You see?
00:07:03Girls, do you mind if I have these last few minutes alone with Alice?
00:07:06Oh, of course.
00:07:07I understand.
00:07:08Good girls, move on.
00:07:13Well, Mother, you're about to lose me.
00:07:15I hope not forever, dear.
00:07:17Oh, of course not.
00:07:18What are you talking about?
00:07:20Do you feel all right, dear?
00:07:23Certainly.
00:07:23I never felt better in my life.
00:07:25You should forget all that silly nonsense about those brides dropping dead.
00:07:36Permission won't work.
00:07:37Oh, thank you.
00:07:43From Dwight, no doubt.
00:07:48Oh, wear this next to your heart, darling.
00:07:51All my love.
00:07:55What an unusual orchid.
00:07:57Why, I never saw one like it before.
00:07:59It's lovely.
00:08:00It's beautiful.
00:08:02It's beautiful.
00:08:16The minister is ready, Mrs. Wentworth.
00:08:26Say a little prayer, darling.
00:08:36You look faint, dear.
00:08:37Do you feel all right?
00:08:38Yes.
00:08:40Oh, oh, oh, Alice, Alice, Alice.
00:08:45Oh, darling, darling, are you all right?
00:08:47Oh, Alice, again.
00:08:49Alice, oh.
00:08:50What happened again?
00:08:51I just got the picture of the month.
00:09:10Alice,MAN?
00:09:10What happened to you?
00:09:14Ah, thanks.
00:09:15You're welcome.
00:09:18You're welcome.
00:09:21Mm-hm.
00:09:25You're welcome.
00:09:26Nice aqui.
00:09:26Nice.
00:09:27You're welcome.
00:09:37I just told the news to Keenan. Did you get any more pictures?
00:09:39Did I get pictures? I covered everything except a close-up of this pretty posy.
00:09:43Why, that looks like the one the bride wore.
00:09:46What are you doing with it?
00:09:47Presenting it to you, sweetheart, as a token of my devotion.
00:09:50Take a smell.
00:09:51Who ever heard of an orchid with a scent?
00:09:53Well, that one has.
00:09:56Maybe it's a clue.
00:09:59What a peculiar sweet odor.
00:10:02Yeah, make a swell romaine salad.
00:10:10Hey, Pat. You're not going to pass out, too, are you?
00:10:13No. No, I'm okay.
00:10:29You stay right here!
00:10:39You stay right here!
00:10:42You stay right here!
00:10:45You stay right here!
00:11:16What kind of a gag is this?
00:11:17No driver, no license plate.
00:11:19Maybe it isn't a gag.
00:11:20Maybe it's a decoy.
00:11:21Well, maybe you're right.
00:11:36Calling all cars, calling all cars, another abduction of a girl's corpse, grunette, 22 years of age, stop and search
00:11:46all trucks and suspicious looking cars, that is all, Burnside.
00:12:04We're taking a look inside this rig.
00:12:06Sure thing, officer.
00:12:22Hey, Pete.
00:12:24It's a corpse, all right, but not the one we're looking for.
00:12:31All right, go ahead.
00:12:38Change that headline to read as wedlock challenged.
00:12:41Then set up an editorial attacking the DA's office for playing marbles while some madman runs away with the bodies
00:12:47of dead brides.
00:12:48Okay, Mr. Keenan.
00:12:49Send me up the proofs right away.
00:12:51Oh, so it's you.
00:12:53Well, of all the rotten stories that have ever been turned into this office, yours takes the prize.
00:12:58No guest list, and we don't even know what the bride wore.
00:13:00She wore this orchid.
00:13:02Listen, Miss Hunter.
00:13:03I have a great responsibility.
00:13:05I'm a public servant.
00:13:07Parents are calling the Chronicle frantically with tears in their voice, begging for news of their daughters.
00:13:13I have a daughter myself who's about to be married.
00:13:15Maybe she'll drop dead, too.
00:13:17But she won't drop dead from an orchid.
00:13:19I didn't say that.
00:13:20Well, then what are you talking about?
00:13:22Every one of the brides that died and disappeared were wearing one of these orchids.
00:13:26How do you know?
00:13:27Well, I checked.
00:13:28Look at these pictures.
00:13:31All right, perhaps it's a coincidence.
00:13:33It still doesn't spell anything.
00:13:35Then where did the Wentworth girl get this orchid?
00:13:37The bridegroom didn't give it to her.
00:13:39Perhaps a dozen people gave it to her.
00:13:41Her mommy, her pappy.
00:13:42No, they didn't either.
00:13:43I checked.
00:13:44Besides, this orchid has a peculiar odor.
00:13:46That's unusual.
00:13:47Well, if you think it's a clue, why don't you follow it up?
00:13:49Is that an assignment?
00:13:50It's a notice that you're through if you don't bring something in.
00:13:53Okay, Mr. Keenan.
00:14:45My little family, you're all so very faithful.
00:14:49Mustard, the countess is waiting.
00:14:51Upstairs.
00:14:51There.
00:14:52Oh, you must hurry.
00:14:54Mike.
00:15:34Are you suffering, my beloved?
00:15:35Terrible.
00:15:37You must hurry.
00:15:39I'm so sorry, but I was detained.
00:15:43Please forgive me.
00:15:44Forgive you.
00:15:45You might waste time.
00:15:48While I wait here, die.
00:15:50Die.
00:15:51Parish, parish.
00:15:53I will not let you die.
00:15:55Better death than agony like this.
00:15:59Look at me.
00:16:01Look at me.
00:16:02Calm yourself, my dear.
00:16:04Now, will you hurry?
00:16:06Hurry.
00:16:07Hurry.
00:16:12Hurry.
00:16:13Hurry.
00:16:21Bye-bye.
00:16:30I will not hear you.
00:16:31Click now.
00:16:33Screw you.
00:16:35Look at me.
00:16:36I will not hurt.
00:16:37Let me do that at home.
00:16:39Do not.
00:16:40Come on.
00:16:40Do not wait.
00:16:41I will not be here.
00:16:41Love me, I will not go into attorney.
00:16:41Bye-bye.
00:16:43Father.
00:16:43anymore.
00:16:47The End
00:17:31Oh, courage, my dear, courage.
00:17:46Oh, courage, my dear, courage.
00:18:30Oh, courage, my dear, courage.
00:18:40Why do you beat my son so hard?
00:18:42Because he's a beast, an animal, and someday I shall have to destroy him.
00:18:47My poor son, why was he ever born?
00:19:01Can you bear to look at me now?
00:19:03Of course.
00:19:05You're beautiful.
00:19:06And I shall always keep you that way.
00:19:18Will she live?
00:19:20As long as she can be having use to us.
00:19:23She's pretty.
00:19:25Very young.
00:19:26All of them must be.
00:19:28Come on, dear.
00:19:31Look after the girl, Parker.
00:19:34Yes, ma'am.
00:19:39None of the flores I checked with ever saw an orchid like that.
00:19:43Well, that's not surprising.
00:19:44This particular type belongs to the Stanhopia class.
00:19:48It's a very rare species.
00:19:50Do you know of anyone that grows them?
00:19:52No.
00:19:53But if you wish to find out more about them, I suggest that you look up a man by the
00:19:57name of Lorenz.
00:19:58He was the one who originally hybridized this plant over in Europe somewhere.
00:20:03But I just can't go to Europe just to...
00:20:05Oh, that isn't necessary.
00:20:07He lives up at Brookdale now.
00:20:10Well, thank you, Mr. Smith.
00:20:11You're quite welcome.
00:20:19Looks like that box's got a coffin in it, Jed.
00:20:21Sure does.
00:20:23For Professor Lorenz.
00:20:24What do you suppose he wants with a coffin?
00:20:27Search me.
00:20:27He's such a strange, spooky guy.
00:20:30The further I stay away from him, the better.
00:20:31Me too.
00:20:33I'll take charge of this.
00:20:35Go ahead.
00:20:35Take it away.
00:20:36Glad to get rid of it.
00:20:49Taxi lady?
00:20:50Yes.
00:20:52Right this way.
00:20:55Where to, miss?
00:20:56To the home of Professor Lorenz.
00:20:58Lorenz, I'm sorry.
00:20:59I can't take you there.
00:21:00Well, I'm out of gas.
00:21:02You mean you won't take me?
00:21:04Yes, ma'am.
00:21:04I'm sorry.
00:21:05I...
00:21:06I...
00:21:06Is this the only taxi in town?
00:21:08Yes, ma'am it is.
00:21:10Look, I've simply got to get to the Lorenz place.
00:21:12I'll make it worth your while.
00:21:14Oh, I'm sorry, lady, but that truck's going up there.
00:21:17You might get a ride with him, that is, if you don't mind riding with a coffin.
00:21:28Would you give me a lift to the Lorenz place?
00:21:30What do you want to go there for?
00:21:31To see the professor.
00:21:32Does he expect you?
00:21:33No, but I...
00:21:33Then we can't take you.
00:21:34What?
00:22:03You're welcome.
00:22:07Get off and stay off.
00:22:10Look, I've got to see Professor Lorenz.
00:22:12It's important.
00:22:13I said you couldn't ride.
00:22:20Hey, wait a minute.
00:22:22You've got my bag.
00:22:24Oh.
00:22:53Would you mind giving me a lift?
00:22:55Well, certainly not.
00:22:55Where are you going?
00:22:56I'm trying to get to the home of Professor Lorenz.
00:22:58Well, you're in luck.
00:22:59That's where I'm going.
00:23:00Get in.
00:23:07My name is Dr. Foster.
00:23:09I'm Patricia Hunter.
00:23:10Are you a friend of the Lorenz?
00:23:12No, I'm a reporter.
00:23:13I hope to interview the professor.
00:23:15You're his doctor, I presume?
00:23:17Not exactly.
00:23:18Lorenz is a doctor himself, but he has no license to practice.
00:23:21I've been working with him.
00:23:22We're trying to find a cure for his wife.
00:23:25Oh, I see.
00:23:27What type of people are the Lorenz's?
00:23:29You'll find them very interesting.
00:23:32Professor Lorenz is a man of unusual accomplishments, but his wife is rather peculiar.
00:23:37I expect you'll find them both a bit eccentric.
00:23:39I'll find them both a bit eccentric.
00:24:15Toby, tell your master I'm here.
00:24:23Cheerful little fellow, isn't he?
00:24:25I told you they were eccentric.
00:24:27I'm inclined to believe you.
00:24:39Get out, you gargoyle.
00:24:41Get out!
00:24:46Good evening, Dr. Foster.
00:24:48Come right in.
00:24:50Good evening, Professor Lorenz, the Countess.
00:24:52May I present Miss Patricia Hunter?
00:24:54How do you do?
00:24:55We have been expecting you.
00:24:57So you found my bag in your truck?
00:24:59Yes.
00:25:00There it is.
00:25:01As Hunter's a newspaper woman...
00:25:03I came here hoping you might grant me an interview.
00:25:05An interview?
00:25:06About what?
00:25:07No one asked you to come here.
00:25:09You are not welcome.
00:25:10Control yourself, my dear.
00:25:13I'm sure Miss Hunter meant no harm.
00:25:15Please forgive my wife.
00:25:16She's not well.
00:25:17Come.
00:25:18You had better retire.
00:25:23So that's what you call being eccentric.
00:25:25Well, I have another name for it.
00:25:30I do not like that girl.
00:25:33She is here for no good.
00:25:35We have nothing to fear.
00:25:44I'm sorry, Professor, if we're intruding.
00:25:46Not at all, Dr. Foster.
00:25:48This is our evening for work.
00:25:51Please, be seated.
00:25:56What do you wish to interview me about?
00:25:58Orchids.
00:25:59Orchids?
00:26:00Yes, I understand that you're an authority on the subject.
00:26:04They were once my hobby.
00:26:06But I haven't grown any for several years.
00:26:08Yes.
00:26:10Which species are you interested in?
00:26:13A very rare one of the Stanhopia type.
00:26:15A horticulturist told me that you're the original hybridizer of it.
00:26:19Have you ever seen one?
00:26:21Yes, I have one in my bag.
00:26:23I'll show it to you.
00:26:26Where did you get it?
00:26:28Oh, um, a friend of mine gave it to me.
00:26:31You see, I'm doing an article on orchids for my newspaper,
00:26:33and I thought that you might be willing to supply me with some special data.
00:26:36I'm sorry I can't spare a time tonight, Miss Hunter.
00:26:39You see, I have very important work to do with Dr. Foster.
00:26:42I understand.
00:26:44If your interview can wait until morning, I'll drive you back here then.
00:26:47If that's agreeable, Professor Orens.
00:26:48Well, it's quite agreeable, but I would suggest that you both stay here as my guests.
00:26:52Thank you very much, but I prefer going to a hotel.
00:26:54Just as you wish.
00:27:02I think it would be foolish to go out in such a storm.
00:27:05Oh, the Professor is right, Miss Hunter.
00:27:07Perhaps we had better remain.
00:27:08However, if you insist, I'll gladly drive you back to the village.
00:27:11I'm afraid that would be an imposition, since you've so much work to do.
00:27:15I'll stay.
00:27:21Toby, we'll show you to your rooms.
00:27:26Toby, take up Miss Hunter's bag.
00:27:34Good night.
00:27:35Good night.
00:27:36I'll meet you in the study soon.
00:27:37Very well.
00:27:48Why did you ask her to spend the night here?
00:27:52A very special reason.
00:28:20I guess you sleep very good.
00:28:23Maybe.
00:28:27A few times I've stayed overnight here, I've slept unusually well.
00:28:30It must be wonderful to have nerves like that.
00:28:33Tell me, just how well do you know these people?
00:28:36Why, actually, not very well.
00:28:37I've only recently moved into the village.
00:28:39You know, a young doctor trying to establish a practice.
00:28:45Well, I must be keeping you from your work.
00:28:47Good night, Doctor.
00:28:48Good night.
00:29:05What do you want?
00:29:06Yes.
00:29:07You are a beautician.
00:29:09How did you get in here?
00:29:10So young.
00:29:12Such lovely skin.
00:29:15Sometimes you, too, will be a bride.
00:29:19Hmm?
00:29:19Uh-oh.
00:29:22Good mother.
00:29:35Good night.
00:29:43Boys.
00:29:44Don't.
00:29:46Let's go.
00:29:46Bye-bye.
00:29:46Bye-bye.
00:29:46Bye-bye.
00:32:01I know where you're going.
00:32:09Some day, the master will catch you.
00:32:13Then you'll be sorry.
00:32:14I know where you're going.
00:33:02I know where you're going.
00:33:41I know where you're going.
00:33:43Dr. Foster.
00:33:50Dr. Foster.
00:33:51Dr. Foster.
00:33:54Dr. Foster.
00:34:05What's wrong?
00:34:06I just saw someone in my room, a horrible looking creature.
00:34:15He disappeared back there.
00:34:17I know where you're going.
00:34:25I know where you're going.
00:34:39I was sitting over my bed.
00:34:41Of course, you might have been dreaming.
00:34:42I'm positive I wasn't.
00:34:44Earlier in the evening, Mrs. Lorenz suddenly appeared and then disappeared.
00:34:47Do you suppose there's another entrance to this room?
00:34:50Why, I doubt it.
00:34:51Why don't you try to go back to sleep?
00:34:53No one's going to harm you.
00:34:55I'm sure it was just a nightmare.
00:34:56I think this whole place is a nightmare.
00:34:59Professor Lorenz and his wife were actually sleeping in coffins.
00:35:02I saw them.
00:35:03We often find it difficult to explain the peculiarities of some people.
00:35:07I guess so.
00:35:09I'm awfully sorry to bother you.
00:35:11It was no trouble.
00:35:12If you're frightened, call me again.
00:35:14Good night.
00:35:15Good night.
00:35:23What is the trouble?
00:35:26The angel.
00:35:28He has disturbed our guests.
00:35:31Always the angel.
00:35:33He is a menace to us.
00:35:35Yes.
00:35:37I think the time has come to dispose of him.
00:35:54He is awful.
00:35:55Hands he is cursed.
00:35:56Who'ls theل.
00:35:57Never mind?
00:36:09His polygon곤osyn.
00:36:11Aniamis...
00:36:11What's going on?
00:36:13He's wet.
00:36:13How was彼像?
00:36:17He's one night.
00:36:19He'sAndro.
00:36:20There was a visitor.
00:40:14Angel, I would not hurt you.
00:41:07Yes?
00:41:09Good morning, Miss Heather.
00:41:10Oh, good morning.
00:41:11Just a minute, Dr. Foster.
00:41:13I want to see you.
00:41:24Oh, I'm sorry.
00:41:25I thought you were up.
00:41:26Oh, I've been up all night with dead people.
00:41:29Oh, I've been up all night with dead people.
00:41:29Dead people?
00:41:30What do you mean?
00:41:31Come in and I'll tell you.
00:41:37What kind of a place is this?
00:41:39Last night I had the most horrible experience of my life.
00:41:42Well, what was it?
00:41:43I saw lots of girls in crips down underneath this house.
00:41:47I saw lots of girls in crips down underneath this house.
00:41:48What was that you were saying, Miss Hunter?
00:41:52Why have you?
00:41:53Why have you a mausoleum in the basement?
00:41:54Why have you a mausoleum in the basement?
00:41:57What are you talking about?
00:41:58You know what I'm talking about?
00:42:00All those dead girls and that horrible dead creature.
00:42:03My dear, you must have had a bad dream.
00:42:06Now look, Professor.
00:42:08This was no dream.
00:42:09When did you see all this?
00:42:11Shortly after I called you and told you about that horrible creature in my room.
00:42:15Is that true, Dr. Foster?
00:42:17Why, I don't recall anything about it, Miss Hunter.
00:42:19You must be mistaken.
00:42:20Well, if I was dreaming, it was the darndest nightmare I've ever had.
00:42:23Well, I slept very soundly myself.
00:42:25Miss Hunter was rather upset, I think, when she retired.
00:42:28You see, in our dreams, our minds play strange tricks on us sometimes.
00:42:34Yes, I suppose so.
00:42:36Oh, Professor, that orchid I brought up here to show you is gone.
00:42:40I couldn't find it in my bag.
00:42:42That's too bad.
00:42:44Perhaps you forgot to pack it.
00:42:46Will you be down soon?
00:42:47Yes, right away.
00:42:48Are you coming, Doctor?
00:42:49Of course.
00:43:26Shall we go into breakfast?
00:43:27No, thank you.
00:43:28I've got to get back to the city.
00:43:30Will you drive me to the station, Dr. Foster?
00:43:31I'll be glad to.
00:43:32But what about the interview?
00:43:34Well, that'll have to wait until some other time.
00:43:36I just remembered an appointment at the office.
00:43:38So I've got to catch the next train.
00:43:41You'll excuse me, Countess?
00:43:42Yes, I will excuse you.
00:43:44Oh, Professor, do you also make a hobby of collecting coffins?
00:43:48Why, yes, in a manner of speaking.
00:43:51I find a coffin much more comfortable than a bed.
00:43:54Many people do so, my dear.
00:43:56Is it so strange that I accept one while waiting for eternal rest?
00:44:02No, I suppose not.
00:44:04Well, thank you for your hospitality.
00:44:06Goodbye.
00:44:09I trust we will meet again.
00:44:12It has been so nice meeting you.
00:44:21Don't tell me I'm still dreaming.
00:44:23What do you mean?
00:44:23That gravedigger.
00:44:25He's real, isn't he?
00:44:30Oh, he's real, all right.
00:44:31But I hardly think he's a gravedigger.
00:44:33More likely laying the foundation for a house.
00:44:35You're a trusting soul, aren't you, Doctor?
00:44:37Is that a crime?
00:44:38No, on the contrary.
00:44:40I envy you.
00:44:41Are you trying to make me believe you're one of those hard-boiled reporters
00:44:43that we read about or see in the movies?
00:44:45No, but working on a newspaper, one becomes cynical and suspicious.
00:45:08Well, I've enjoyed meeting you, Miss Hunter.
00:45:09I hope to have the pleasure of seeing you again.
00:45:11I have a hunch you will, Dr. Foster.
00:45:13Oh, tell me.
00:45:15Just why did you come up here?
00:45:17Or is it the secret?
00:45:19It is, but...
00:45:21Somehow I feel that I can trust you.
00:45:23You can.
00:45:24You've heard of the case of the vanishing brides.
00:45:26Why, surely.
00:45:27I think I have a clue.
00:45:30You don't mean that you suspect...
00:45:31Yes, I do.
00:45:33I want to show you something.
00:45:36What are these?
00:45:38Why, they're orchids, of course.
00:45:39You bet they're orchids.
00:45:40And they didn't grow in my dreams.
00:45:43They're exactly like the one that disappeared from my bag.
00:45:46Where did you get them?
00:45:47I found them on the floor beside my bed this morning.
00:45:49The person who came into my room last night must have brought these with him.
00:45:53That seems like a logical explanation.
00:45:55There's no question about it.
00:45:56Honestly, Doctor.
00:45:58Don't you remember meeting me in the hallway last night?
00:46:01No, I don't.
00:46:02And if I did, I...
00:46:03I must have been asleep.
00:46:05Either that or you were hypnotized.
00:46:08Yes, that's quite possible.
00:46:18Well, watch your step.
00:46:19And if you discover anything, phone me.
00:46:21That's a promise.
00:46:22Goodbye.
00:46:23Not goodbye. Au revoir.
00:46:29All right, print the story on page one.
00:46:31Keep your fingers crossed that this paper isn't suitable liable by some of these phony suspects that the police are
00:46:36bringing in.
00:46:36Well, they get me a red brand of the guy they just brought in.
00:46:39I don't want photographs.
00:46:40I want real clues.
00:46:42The DA's office can't pick up those mad men who's stealing the bodies of these dead girls.
00:46:46Maybe we can.
00:46:47Okay, I'll throw it in a waste basket.
00:46:49No, I'll have it developed.
00:46:51Doyle, where's Lefty?
00:46:52Over at Central Station.
00:46:54The only thing he gets over there is a game of gin roaming.
00:46:56Tell him to get back here.
00:46:57Well, I got something.
00:46:58I'll say you have.
00:46:59You're fired.
00:47:00What do you mean?
00:47:00You can't do that to me.
00:47:02Listen.
00:47:02Just because the bodies of dead girls disappear is no reason why you can do a vanishing act.
00:47:06But you gave me the assignment.
00:47:07Yeah, I suppose I did.
00:47:08All right.
00:47:09Where have you been?
00:47:10What have you uncovered?
00:47:10Well, hey, not so fast.
00:47:12Listen, Mr. Keenan, last night I went through the most gruesome experience of my life.
00:47:16You should talk.
00:47:17All my life has been a nightmare.
00:47:19Well, you can rest easier now because I've seen plenty.
00:47:21If I can only prove I wasn't dreaming.
00:47:23Dreaming?
00:47:24I had a dream last night myself.
00:47:26I dreamed you gave me that raise you've been promising me.
00:47:30All right, Madam Zora, go on with your dream story.
00:47:32Well, there's a certain Professor Lorenz that lives upstate.
00:47:35He knows all about orchids but insists that he doesn't grow them anymore.
00:47:39Yet I found these in my bedroom this morning.
00:47:43Listen, Lizzie, you didn't go off someplace and get married, did you?
00:47:45No, I didn't.
00:47:46But I saw the bodies of those other missing brides.
00:47:50All right.
00:47:51Now, take it easy.
00:47:52Stop breathing hard, Pat, and tell me all about it.
00:47:55Did you really see any bodies?
00:47:57Oh, yes and no.
00:47:59I see.
00:48:00Just a bit of ectoplasm.
00:48:02Oh, I'm sure I did, though.
00:48:03Oh, only...
00:48:04Oh, I can't explain it.
00:48:06Yeah, you're suffering the same way I am.
00:48:08I see brides everywhere.
00:48:09Hear wedding bells ringing in my ears.
00:48:12And I saw a dead man, too.
00:48:13A monstrosity.
00:48:16You're very well.
00:48:19I'd like to see Miss Hunter.
00:48:20Oh, I'm sorry.
00:48:21She's busy.
00:48:22She's with Mr. Keenan.
00:48:23It's very important that I see her.
00:48:24I'm Dr. Foster.
00:48:25I wonder if you'd mind announcing me.
00:48:28Mr. Keenan.
00:48:30There's Dr. Foster here.
00:48:32He sits on seeing Miss Hunter.
00:48:34Tell him he can have all of her time from now on.
00:48:36That's the Dr. Foster I was telling you about.
00:48:38Maybe he has more evidence.
00:48:40All right.
00:48:41Send the sawbones in.
00:48:43Hey, look, if you don't mind, I'm going out for a nervous breakdown.
00:48:48Well, Doctor, you almost beat me here.
00:48:50Yes, I drove down.
00:48:52Dr. Foster, Mr. Keenan, my editor.
00:48:53Very glad to meet you, Miss Hunter.
00:48:54How do you know?
00:48:55This cub reporter of mine has been telling me a weird story about a certain Dr. Lorenz up in your
00:48:59neighborhood.
00:49:00It's weird, all right, but I'm confident it's true.
00:49:03After you left, I looked around the station to find out if Lorenz had any of the coffins assigned to
00:49:07him.
00:49:07I found a consignment, all right.
00:49:09Instead of a coffin, it was a box filled with this stuff.
00:49:14So what? That's ordinary garden moss.
00:49:16It's moss, all right, but not ordinary.
00:49:19This is a special type used by florists and hybridizers for growing orchids.
00:49:22It's called osmondin.
00:49:24Which proves that he does grow orchids like these.
00:49:26And the same kind were worn by every one of the brides that died.
00:49:30Well, maybe it is a clue.
00:49:31But how do I know that the rest isn't a cockeyed nightmare?
00:49:34She admits that you don't remember talking to her.
00:49:36I could have talked to her one in a synambulistic state, under the influence of hypnotism.
00:49:40Oh, now, wait a minute.
00:49:42Are you trying to tell me that this Professor Lorenz is a hypnotist as well as a horticulturist?
00:49:47Why not?
00:49:48My short acquaintance with him has convinced me that he's a man of unlimited talents.
00:49:51He's strange, peculiar.
00:49:54I've even suspected him of being insane.
00:49:56But the fact remains he's not only a doctor, but a physicist and a scientist of great ability.
00:50:00How about this hot-headed wife of his?
00:50:02I hesitate to bring her into the case at all.
00:50:05Professional ethics forbids a doctor talking about his patients.
00:50:08Oh, forget about your ethics, doctor.
00:50:10After all, we're after a criminal.
00:50:12How does this woman fit into the picture?
00:50:14Come on, tell us all you know.
00:50:17The peculiar fact about her is that although she has the appearance of a young woman,
00:50:21her heart and arteries indicate that she's at least 70 or 80 years old.
00:50:24Well, that doesn't explain anything.
00:50:26Certainly doesn't explain why Dr. Lorenz should steal these dead girls.
00:50:30It's possible they may still be alive.
00:50:32Alive in a cataleptic state?
00:50:34That's it.
00:50:35All right, all right.
00:50:36What are your other deductions?
00:50:37Well, simply this.
00:50:38These young girls, whether dead or alive, are being used by Lorenz in some manner as human guinea pigs to
00:50:44sustain his wife in a youthful state.
00:50:46Oh, that's preposterous.
00:50:47It's nothing of the kind.
00:50:49Scientists are finding out every day that glands and hormones have a lot to do with life and health.
00:50:53The glands in our bodies help determine the condition of our teeth, the texture of our hair.
00:50:57All right, we'll admit all that.
00:50:59But I wouldn't dare print such a fantastic story.
00:51:01I bring you the biggest story of the year and a chance to get this newspaper a real scoop and
00:51:05you call it fantastic.
00:51:07All right, I'll put Doyle on it to track it down.
00:51:09I'm afraid you won't get very far.
00:51:11Professor Lorenz is a clever man.
00:51:12Clever enough to withstand any investigation and destroy any evidence.
00:51:16Why not track the fellow?
00:51:18How?
00:51:18Well, he steals dead brides, doesn't he?
00:51:20Oh, now look, Pat, do you want to be a June bride?
00:51:23Well, sure.
00:51:24I mean, that is, no, not yet.
00:51:26Anyway, Lorenz knows me.
00:51:27All right, then stop talking nonsense.
00:51:29This paper can't assume the responsibility of such a harebrained scheme.
00:51:33Oh, please, Mr. Keenan, you can't pass up an opportunity like this.
00:51:44There she is.
00:51:46Cigarettes?
00:51:48Hey, she's cute.
00:51:51Uh, well, would you like to dance?
00:51:53Later.
00:51:54Business before pleasure, you know.
00:51:57Hello, Peggy.
00:51:58Hello, Pat.
00:51:58Ms. Woods, Dr. Foster.
00:52:00Good evening, Ms. Woods.
00:52:00How do you do?
00:52:01I have something important to tell you.
00:52:03I'm all ears.
00:52:04Let's go to your dressing room.
00:52:05Okay.
00:52:06I won't be long.
00:52:07All right.
00:52:15Peggy, I've landed a good part for you.
00:52:17A chance to prove your talent.
00:52:18Really?
00:52:19What is it, a picture or a play?
00:52:20Neither one.
00:52:21My paper's going to stage a phony wedding, and we want you to be the perfect June bride.
00:52:25Now, wait just a minute.
00:52:26With bridesmaids and flowers and all the trimmings.
00:52:28What is it, a circulation stunt?
00:52:30No.
00:52:31You've heard of the case of the vanishing bride.
00:52:33Sure.
00:52:33Well, this is a plan we have to trap the person who's been stealing their bodies.
00:52:36Are you kidding?
00:52:38Certainly not.
00:52:39The job will pay you plenty.
00:52:40How will I collect if I'm dead?
00:52:42You won't be dead.
00:52:43All you have to be careful of is not to smell any flowers.
00:52:46All I do is lie six feet underground and push them up.
00:52:48Nicks, count me out.
00:52:49Listen, Peggy.
00:52:50I'm offering you a chance to get your picture on the front page of every newspaper in this
00:52:54country.
00:52:55Overnight, you'll be famous.
00:52:56Broadway producers and Hollywood studios will be offering you contracts.
00:53:00What's the chance you've been waiting for?
00:53:08She's the most unusual type.
00:53:12Such fascinating eyes.
00:53:14She'll make a charming addition to our family.
00:53:18June 20th.
00:53:20A date we shall not forget.
00:53:27Farga, what are you doing in this part of the house?
00:53:31Master, I keep hearing my son's voice calling for me.
00:53:36Your son is better off where he is.
00:53:38Go back to your work.
00:53:39Master, you shouldn't have done it.
00:53:42He didn't deserve to die.
00:53:44Do what I say and don't come up here again.
00:53:48Yes, master.
00:53:58Well, everything's all set.
00:54:00She's young and pretty.
00:54:01Yeah.
00:54:02What assurance have we that this Lorenz guy will show up to make the snatch?
00:54:05And what happens if he does kidnap this fake bride?
00:54:07Well, the private chapel and neighborhood will be covered with guards and, well, Lorenz hasn't a chance to escape.
00:54:13Providing he shows up.
00:54:14And if he doesn't, I'm the sucker and I have 500 bucks.
00:54:17And if he does, you have an exclusive story with big juicy headlines.
00:54:23I hope you're right.
00:54:30Well, Blushing Bride, here's where you go on for your big scene.
00:54:33Or big flop.
00:54:34My knees are shaking.
00:54:35There's nothing to be afraid of.
00:54:37Here's your bouquet and the phony orchid.
00:54:39Now, don't forget to put on your act.
00:54:41Leave that to me.
00:54:42You got plenty of photographers out there?
00:54:44Certainly.
00:54:44Certainly.
00:54:44And what about the cops?
00:54:46How many times do I have to tell you nothing's going to happen to you?
00:54:49Oh, uh, Miss Hunter.
00:54:50Yes?
00:54:51Uh, I wanted to ask you, in this ceremony, shall we use the word cherish or obey?
00:54:56You mean for the bride?
00:54:57Yes.
00:54:58Well, just for this once, let's put the old-fashioned word in.
00:55:00Obey.
00:55:01I've marked the words here.
00:55:03Just read the ceremony slowly, solemnly.
00:55:07Yes, I understand.
00:55:08I hope what you're doing isn't wrong.
00:55:10It's all on good cause.
00:55:12Well, I suppose it is.
00:55:14Well, if you need me, you'll find me in my study.
00:55:17You've been grand, Reverend.
00:55:19You'd better go get ready.
00:55:20What do I do now?
00:55:21Just march down the aisle and don't forget the faint of the altar.
00:55:24Well, here goes nothing.
00:55:30How's everything going?
00:55:31All right so far, I guess.
00:55:32Good.
00:55:32The ceremony's about to begin.
00:55:34I certainly hope somebody shows up besides these ham actors I'm paying.
00:55:37You know, it seems to me that if Lorenz were ready to strike, he'd have sent an orchid.
00:55:41Just a minute.
00:55:41I'll take that.
00:55:43Did you say orchid?
00:55:44And I'll take you with it.
00:55:47There you are.
00:55:48Looks like our man's going to pounce all right.
00:55:51It looks like you're right.
00:55:56Here we go.
00:55:58Here we go.
00:56:00Here we go.
00:56:07Here we go.
00:56:08Here we go.
00:56:08Here we go.
00:56:08Here we go.
00:56:09Here we go.
00:56:09Here we go.
00:56:10Here we go.
00:56:10Here we go.
00:56:10Here we go.
00:56:11Here we go.
00:56:13Here we go.
00:56:18Here we go.
00:56:25It looks just like a real wedding, doesn't it?
00:56:28Yes.
00:56:29Too bad it isn't.
00:56:32Ours.
00:56:34Is that a proposal, Dr. Foster?
00:56:36It certainly is.
00:56:38The minister would like to speak to you in his study, Miss Hunter.
00:56:42But...
00:56:42Oh, you mean the real minister?
00:56:44Yes, ma'am.
00:56:46I'll be right back.
00:56:56You wanted to see me, Reverend?
00:57:05Where's Pat?
00:57:06The minister sent for her.
00:57:30I'll be right back.
00:57:42Oh, Pat!
00:58:22Please, master!
00:58:23Don't leave me!
00:58:27Oh, the Lord!
00:58:31Oh, the Lord!
00:58:45Stop辵!
00:58:46Stop!
00:58:46Stop!
00:58:46Come on!
00:58:46Come on!
00:58:48Do you really care about me?
00:58:50Oh, no!
00:58:50Ha ha
00:58:51ha! Wait!
00:58:51I love
00:58:51you! Ah!
00:58:53Can you?
00:58:54Can you see him
00:58:54well! Hi!
00:58:54Just rhythm!
00:58:54I love
00:59:10Toby, my son, where is Toby, master?
00:59:12Toby's gone.
00:59:13Alice.
00:59:13You shouldn't have left.
00:59:14Stop whimpering.
00:59:15How is the countess?
00:59:16Waiting as usual.
00:59:18Hurry up, let's go.
00:59:37There was trouble.
00:59:38Yes, but we'll be finished before anyone finds us.
00:59:40But the bride, what will we do without them?
00:59:43Yes, we'll leave them here.
00:59:45Which means I will perish.
00:59:47Oh, it didn't work if I find other girls.
00:59:48In the meantime, we'll take this one with us.
00:59:51What are you waiting for?
00:59:55Well, my dear, again we meet.
00:59:58Only under different circumstances.
01:00:02I would have preferred that you would be a bride, but it really doesn't matter.
01:00:05You will serve our purpose just as well.
01:00:09Now both of my sons are gone.
01:00:11You betrayed me, man.
01:00:15I heard enough.
01:00:16There's work to do.
01:00:49You betrayed me, master.
01:00:51You shouldn't have done it.
01:01:01You shouldn't have done it.
01:01:20You shouldn't have done it.
01:01:25You stay here and cover this.
01:01:30Your hand is unsteady.
01:01:33I can't see.
01:01:37I can't see.
01:02:02Pat!
01:02:08hat hat is she dead no just scared to death
01:02:16all right break it up we've got headlines to write do i get a byline
01:02:22after this you can have a clothesline with my shirt on it
01:02:28i now pronounce you man and wife
01:02:34finally make a newspaper woman out of you don't quit
01:02:37and to think that this was the cause of it all
01:02:42oh
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