And one of the strangest films in the Universal "horror" series of the 1930's! U even admitted that THE INVISIBLE RAY was not going to be billed as a horror film, instead categorizing it as "unusual" (i.e. science-fiction). However, it was horror by association with the headlining stars being the pairing of Boris Karloff (Dr. Janos Rukh) and Bela Lugosi (Dr. Felix Benet), their third together after THE BLACK CAT (1934) and THE RAVEN (1935).
Overall, an interesting story -- a bit sprawling, but quite visually arresting and mixes images of the gothic (which U was known for), as well as futuristic lab sets (also used in the FLASH GORDON serials and DRACULA'S DAUGHTER) and even a "jungle adventure" sequence.
The filming of the picture was kept a secret on the Universal lot, even banning studio execs who weren't involved directly with the making of the film, so claimed the accompanying article in the November 9, 1935 issue of the internal news magazine, UNIVERSAL WEEKLY. The reason for the secrecy was because of the dazzling special effects that were to be unveiled during the story. Unfortunately, U again makes the mistake -- like that with makeup genius, Jack Pierce -- with giving the creators of these effects short shrift with the kudos. I am making up for it here:
- Raymond Lindsay: special effects (uncredited)
- John P. Fulton: special cinematographer
- Cleo E. Baker: miniatures (uncredited)
- Jack Cosgrove: matte artist (uncredited)
- David S. Horsley: effects assistant (uncredited)
- Russell Lawson: matte artist (uncredited)
Frances Drake plays Diana Rukh, wife of Janos, who sees his husband turn from great scientist to desperate criminal. No shrinking violet is Diana, but she does succumb to another's charms while her husband is off murdering for a cure to his radiation disease, the type of subplot that was used to create sexual tension. Born Frances Morgan Dean, the doe-eyed and beautiful Frances Drake (October 22, 1912 – January 18, 2000) is shown as a strong (and erotic) female, exemplified in a shot were she stridently crosses the screen in a sheer gown that leaves just enough to the imagination. I had the honor several years ago, of paying my respects at her graveside located at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery.
BONUS! Movie Herald for THE INVISIBLE RAY.