Author Archive: Retro

Abstract piece in which role reversal is carried to its peak – all the “dancing” is done by inanimate objects and the people are used as stationary, inanimate objects stuck in repeating patterns.

Laurel and Hardy demonstrate the uses of wood in this World War II propaganda film.

Egyptian princess is slated for sacrifice by members of a cult, but is shielded from harm by her fianc? Frank Chandler. 12 Chapters. Dir. Ray Taylor.

Universal Pictures 63rd sound-era serial (between “Mystery of the River Boat” and “The Masater Key”) finds that Nazi agents are trying to arouse the tribes of the middle jungle in Africa to revolt against the British. Americans Bob Elliott (Edward Norris) and Chuck Kelly (Eddie Quillan) arrive to help the British agents. Lothel (Ruth Roman), the mysterious Queen of the Jungle, appears and disappears always in the nick of time to save them, and also Pam Courtney (Lois Collier), niece of the explorer Alan Courtney (‘Boyd Irwin’ (q)). Dr. Elise Bork (Tala Birell) and her henchman Lang (Douglass Dumbrille) are the Nazi chiefs, posing as scientists. Lang has great influence on some of the tribesman, especially with Chief Maata (Napoleon Simpson’) who wants to keep Kyba (Clarence Muse) from becoming judge over all the tribes. A Secret Sword is the key to the ruler of the jungles, and the holder of this secret is sought [...]