''The Mad Ghoul'' (1943)

By Crusader1307

  During Universal Studios ''heyday'' as ''Monster Capital of The World'' – several of it's films were overlooked, when most audiences were more interested in Frankenstein, Dracula, The Mummy and The Wolfman. 1943s ''The Mad Ghoul'' is a worthy Horror Movie, well worth a look even today. Black and White and filmed well to capture ''atmospheric effect'', the premise deals with a Scientist who has discovered an Ancient Mayan ''formula'' (in gaseous form) for not only life extension, but for bringing back The Dead it seems. Using the chemical on a recently deceased Assistant, ''He'' resurrects but is unaware that He is Dead. Further, a problem with the chemical finds that while it re-animates, it does not stop (only slows) – decomposition.

The Scientist begins to ''use'' the hapless Zombie Assistant to procure bodies (murder), to refine His discovery. Soon, The Assistant become aware that he is a decomposing Zombie and revolts against The Doctor. Killing Him, The Assistant also finds that the Mayan Gas is slowly wearing off. Without infusion, ''He'' will finally ''die'' – a mission that happens when The Zombie Assistant retreats to a local graveyard. Half-heartedly accepted by then Critics, ''The Mad Ghoul'' nonetheless features purposeful acting for a ''B''-Grade Film, and is well worth watching – if nothing else for the Universal ''formula'' of creepy music and creepier camera placement to enhance a scare.