In a 16th-century European town, the ruling family has been given a prophecy that, should there ever be twin boys born, the younger will murder the older; so is dismayed when twins are born to the popular baron. The older grows to be a selfish, slovenly man, who inherits the castle at his father's death and becomes ruler over the formerly happy villagers. He enjoys his power until he learns his younger brother is returning from abroad and, afraid of the prophecy, he determines to murder his sibling, hide his body in the "black room" - an old torture chamber sealed away behind the fireplace - and then impersonate him, right down to his withered arm. In this way he hopes to not only avoid the prophecy, but also escape consequences of his other criminal deeds and obtain marriage to a local girl of the nobility...
Editor's Verdict
"The movie is a pure horror/crime thriller centered on a murderous prophecy, betrayal, and an incestuous plot. The only potential element detected is a 'Fireplace,' which is entirely insufficient to classify this film as Christmas-related."
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🎄 Notable Elements
Cast & Crew
Boris Karloff
Baron Gregor de Berghman / Anton de Berghman
Marian Marsh
Thea Hassel
Robert Allen
Lt. Albert Lussan
Thurston Hall
Col. Paul Hassel
Katherine DeMille
Mashka
John Buckler
Beran - the gypsy
Henry Kolker
Baron de Berghman
Colin Tapley
Paul Hassel as a young lieutenant
Torben Meyer
Peter, the majordomo
John George
Inn Waiter (uncredited)
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