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Though not particularly scary, the 1940 film, "The Devil Bat", directed by Jean Yarbrough, is a rather entertaining film to watch. The film hosts a variety of actors however, there are a select few who throughout their careers, managed to make an impression in Hollywood. Bela Lugosi, who plays the manipulative Dr. Paul Carruthers, is perhaps one of the film's most recognizable actors. Though Lugosi's career dwindled drastically towards the end of his life, he is remembered and still idolized today by many low-budget horror fans.
Born in Lugos, Hungary in 1882, Bela Lugosi studied at the Budapest Academy of Theatrical Arts before making his stage debut as a featured juvenile. Lugosi went on to earn the reputation as one of Hungary's great matinee idols. His film debut took place with the 1917 production of "A-Leopard". In 1920, Lugosi moved to New York City to escape the turmoil that his country was currently going through. After arriving in New York, Lugosi toiled in stage melodramas until 1927, when he earned the title role in Broadway's production of "Dracula". The stage production caught the interest of producer-director Tim Browning, who decided to turn the production into a film. Browning cast Lugosi to play the title role of Dracula after his first choice suddenly died. The 1931 film launched Universal's long-running cycle of horror films, and turned Lugosi into an overnight star. Lugosi went on to star in a variety of horror films, but sadly, his fame did not last for too long. He continued to act and star in films, however, his growing addiction to morphine and his willingness to accept any role that was offered to him, led to a decline in fans and good role offers. Lugosi's last screen appearance was in the now cult-classic, "Plan 9 from Outer Space". Lugosi died in 1956 during the production of "Plan 9" and his scenes were completed by a stand-in. The actor was buried in his full Dracula costume, including the famous cape.
Suzanne Kaaren plays the role of Mary Heath, the sweet but naïve daughter of Mr. Heath. Kaaren arrived in Hollywood under contract to 20th Century-Fox and later signed a contract with MGM Studios. Though Kaaren is not hugely celebrated today, she was quite an icon during her career. At one point, her legs were insured for one million dollars. Though she appeared in a few "Three Stooges" shorts such as "Disorder in the Court" and "What's the Matador?", Kaaren is perhaps best known for her role in "The Devil Bat".
