One Body Too Many

One Body Too Many is a classic black and white American horror comedy film released in 1944. Directed by Frank McDonald, it brings to life a captivating blend of suspense, mystery and humor delivered through an impressive cast. The film stars Jack Haley, popularly known for his role as the Tin Man in 'The Wizard of Oz.' Accompanying him are Jean Parker and horror legend Bela Lugosi, known for his iconic portrayal of Dracula.

Set in an imposing mansion with eerie shadows and hidden passageways, the narrative unfolds with the death of a wealthy eccentric, Cyrus J. Rutherford. Rutherford, a complete believer in astrology and the effects of celestial bodies on human life, puts forth a bizarre condition in his last will and testament. His prime stipulation is that he desires to be entombed in a specially built glass vault on his estate, ensuring that he can observe the stars even after death. If this stipulation is not met, his vast fortune would be distributed among public charities, leaving his relatives without a penny.

Enter Albert L. Tuttle, gracefully portrayed by Jack Haley. Tuttle, an insurance agent who is completely unaware of Rutherford's death, arrives at the mansion to sell life insurance. He finds himself misconstrued as the detective the family had hired to ensure Rutherford's last wishes are executed accurately, hence ensuring their inheritance.

As the night progresses, tensions rise and the aura of fear amplifies. The mansion becomes a labyrinth of suspense with unexplained happenings, strange noises, and dark, sinewy shadows. When somebody attempts to tamper with Rutherford's glass vault, the mansion experiences a power outage. With the legacy at stake and one less person, Tuttle must navigate the dark, menacing mansion and preserve Cyrus’s eccentric last wishes.

Haley successfully infuses comedy into the mystery, offering moments of relief and hilarity amidst the rising apprehension. His comic timing combined with a well-written script brings a perfect balance between horror and humor. He leans into the confusion with a keen sense of inquiry, careening from one humorous encounter to the next, all the while attempting to unravel the mystery that shrouds the mansion.

Bela Lugosi, with his strong stage presence and iconic reputation for horror roles, plays the part of Merkil, the creepy, sombre butler. His character adds an additional layer of intrigue, contributing to the mansion's eerie ambience. Lugosi perfectly embodies the classic horror-movie servant, looming in and around the house, his actions as enigmatic as his persona.

Jean Parker, who plays Carol Dunlap, a secretary to the late Rutherford, serves as a companion and love interest for Tuttle. Parker’s performance offers a warm counterpoint to the macabre overtones that pervade the mansion. Her on-screen partnership with Haley brings a romantic beam of light into the shadowy suspense-filled narrative.

Besides the main characters, the film also boasts a solid supporting cast. The family members, who all have a distinct flavor of their personalities, further add color and stir to the plot. They range from the aggressive and money-minded Jim Davis to the hypochondriac aunt Amelia, all of whom are under the ever-watchful eye of lawyer Morton Gellman.

What makes One Body Too Many stand out is its synthesis of comedy and horror, two genres that would seem incompatible on the surface. From the beginning to the end, the storyline steadily maintains the right blend of strengths from both genres. Don’t let the black and white film fool you; this flick offers vibrant characters, intriguing plot twists, and a heap of humor in the most unlikely situations.

One Body Too Many is a classic gem from the 1940s, showcasing engaging performances, solid writing, and a fine balance of horror and comedy. Whether you're an avid horror enthusiast looking for a different flavor or a classic film lover, this movie is a must-watch. Prepare to laugh, gasp, and be thoroughly entertained by this delightful old Hollywood production.