Step into the eerie world of The Devil-Doll, a 1936 sci-fi horror revenge thriller, now available in a stunning colorized HD edition. Directed by the legendary Tod Browning—renowned for his work on Dracula and Freaks—this cult classic adapts Abraham Merritt’s novel Burn Witch Burn! and delivers a unique blend of mad science, suspense, and emotional drama. For fans of vintage horror, pre-war Hollywood, and unforgettable performances, The Devil-Doll is a must-download experience.
The Devil-Doll follows Paul Lavond (Lionel Barrymore), a Parisian banker wrongfully convicted of robbery and murder. After enduring seventeen years on the infamous Devil’s Island, Lavond escapes with Marcel, a brilliant but unorthodox scientist. Marcel’s obsession: a formula that can shrink living beings to a fraction of their size, intended to solve global overpopulation and resource scarcity.
When Marcel dies soon after their escape, Lavond teams up with Marcel’s widow, Malita (Rafaela Ottiano), and adopts the persona of Madame Mandelip, an elderly dollmaker. Using the shrinking formula, Lavond sets out to exact revenge on the former business partners who framed him. He dispatches his living dolls—miniaturized humans, controlled by thought—into their homes, orchestrating a series of chilling and inventive acts of retribution.
Amidst his quest for vengeance, Lavond’s greatest challenge is reconnecting with his estranged daughter Lorraine (Maureen O’Sullivan), who believes her father is dead and has struggled alone since his imprisonment. As Lavond’s plot unfolds, he must decide whether to continue down the path of revenge or secure a future for his daughter and clear his name.
The Devil-Doll features a remarkable cast, each bringing depth to this twisted tale:
Lionel Barrymore as Paul Lavond / Madame Mandelip
Maureen O’Sullivan as Lorraine Lavond
Frank Lawton as Toto, Lorraine’s fiancé
Rafaela Ottiano as Malita
Henry B. Walthall as Marcel
Grace Ford as Lachna
Robert Greig as Emil Coulvet
Lucy Beaumont as Mme. Lavond
The Devil-Doll is a genre-bending blend of sci-fi horror, revenge thriller, and psychological drama. Its inventive premise, atmospheric visuals, and cross-dressing performance by Lionel Barrymore set it apart from typical 1930s horror fare.
Released in 1936, The Devil-Doll marks a fascinating chapter in Tod Browning’s career. Known for pushing boundaries with films like Freaks and Dracula, Browning crafts a story that combines social commentary with genre thrills. The film’s themes of scientific overreach, justice, and redemption reflect anxieties of the era, while its special effects and makeup set new standards for cinematic creativity.
The Devil-Doll also stands out for its exploration of identity and disguise. Barrymore’s transformation into Madame Mandelip is both a technical marvel and a performance milestone, challenging gender norms and audience expectations.
This colorized edition of The Devil-Doll breathes new life into Browning’s macabre vision. Modern digital restoration techniques have been used to enhance the film’s moody Parisian settings, the eerie doll shop, and the unforgettable sequences featuring miniaturized humans. The colorization process highlights the film’s gothic atmosphere and period details, making it more accessible and visually engaging for contemporary viewers.
Director: Tod Browning
Screenplay: Guy Endore, Garrett Fort, Richard Schayer, Erich von Stroheim
Based on: Burn Witch Burn! by Abraham Merritt
Cinematography: Leonard Smith
Composer: Franz Waxman
Production Company: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Runtime: 79 minutes
Sound Mix: Mono
Format: MP4
Resolution: HD (1080p)
Compatibility: Works on all major devices—smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
The Devil-Doll has achieved cult status among horror aficionados and classic film lovers alike. Critics praise its inventive special effects, atmospheric direction, and Barrymore’s dual-gender performance. While not as commercially successful as Browning’s earlier works, the film is now celebrated for its originality and boldness.
The Devil-Doll’s influence can be seen in later science fiction and horror films that explore themes of miniaturization, identity, and vengeance. Its blend of suspense, pathos, and dark humor ensures its enduring appeal.
Q: Is The Devil-Doll based on a true story?
A: The film is inspired by the novel Burn Witch Burn! by Abraham Merritt and is entirely fictional.
Q: What makes The Devil-Doll unique among 1930s horror films?
A: Its combination of science fiction, psychological drama, and a cross-dressing lead performance sets it apart from other genre films of its era.
Q: Is the colorized version faithful to the original?
A: The colorization enhances the film’s visuals while preserving Tod Browning’s original atmosphere and intent.
Q: Who are the main stars of The Devil-Doll?
A: Lionel Barrymore and Maureen O’Sullivan lead a talented ensemble cast.
Q: What is the download format and quality?
A: The film is available in HD (1080p) MP4 format, compatible with all major devices.
Experience the macabre brilliance of The Devil-Doll—download the colorized HD edition today!