The Phantom Fiend – Can Old Thrills Still Give Goosebumps?

So, I watched The Phantom Fiend again last Friday night, just as the rain started pouring over Södermalm, and I have to say… there’s something proper cosy about British creepers from the 1930s. Directed by Maurice Elvey (he’s made like 100 films, but most folks outside film circles seem to forget him), this remake of The Lodger plops you straight into those foggy London streets. Kind of wild thinking this was made in 1932.

Now, let’s talk about Ivor Novello. He’s like the David Bowie of his era, yeah? Maybe a bit dramatic with all the bug-eyed looks, but that’s part of the charm. Watching his face shift between innocent and “maybe I did murder someone” still sends a shiver up my arms. And then you have all these faces in the background that feel straight from an old-timey Stockholm summer party – everyone’s got a backstory you’ll never hear.

It’s creaky, sure, like an old summer cabin door at the family stuga. But there’s this weird sweetness to the old-fashioned acting, the strings shrieking back and forth, even the dodgy fog effect. And honestly, there’s something comforting about a thriller that doesn’t rely on jump-scares, just thick mood and twitchy eyebrows.

Funny thing: I first saw this on VHS at my mormor’s when I was like 13 and couldn’t sleep for days. None of my friends cared, of course – they were more into Scream or whatever – but for me, The Phantom Fiend still scratches that itch for shadowy old mysteries. Those who want blood and guts won’t find it, but if you want atmosphere, oddball charm, and a bit of that “is this dude creepy or just misunderstood?” feeling, you’ll get a kick.

So maybe wobble up some knäcke, brew a cuppa, and sink into the shadows with this one. It’s like old jazz – not perfect, but hits a spot nothing modern quite does.

watch the full movie on Mavshack Movies on YouTube

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