Mad Love
Director: Karl Freund
Actors: Peter Lorre, Frances Drake, Colin Clive
PlotIn Paris, renowned surgeon Dr. Gogol becomes infatuated with stage actress Yvonne Orlac, who frequently performs at a horror theater. His obsession with Yvonne grows as she continues her performances, culminating on the night of her final show. Yvonne is married to Stephen Orlac, a celebrated pianist, who remains oblivious to Gogol's growing fixation. Meanwhile, Stephen travels to meet Yvonne, but falls victim to a catastrophic train accident that shatters his hands—threatening his career and livelihood. Desperate to restore her husband's hands and talent, Yvonne turns to Dr. Gogol for help. Driven by his unreciprocated love, Gogol agrees and performs an experimental surgery to attach the hands of an executed murderer to Stephen.
As Stephen recovers, he struggles with his new hands, which seem to have a mind of their own. They reveal an unsettling propensity for violence, causing Stephen to question his sanity and identity. Yvonne, noticing her husband's agitation and erratic behavior, grows concerned about the unsettling change in him. The more Stephen tries to reconcile with his condition, the more sinister his actions become, drawing them both into a web of intrigue and danger. Simultaneously, Dr. Gogol's obsession takes darker turns as he manipulates circumstances to insert himself into Yvonne's life. As tensions mount and events spiral out of control, Stephen, Yvonne, and Gogol become ensnared in a chilling tale where love, madness, and science collide.
Writers: Maurice Renard, Florence Crewe-Jones, Guy Endore
Release Date: 12 Jul 1935
Runtime: 68 min
Rating: Passed
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
Karl Freund's Mad Love offers a captivating Peter Lorre performance, enhanced by Warner Archive's stunning Blu-ray restoration; highly recommended for horror aficionados.
Read our review of Mad Love Blu-ray Warner Archive Collection to find out more