Few names are as recognizable as that of Boris Karloff. The gentle English actor who brought us the sweet Christmas tale “How The Grinch Stole Christmas” also brought us some of the most terrifyingly wonderful performances in the history of the business. Cursed with a harsh enough look, Karloff was denied the mainstream success his ability so obviously warranted. He was one of the founders of the Screen Actor’s Guild and was extremely active in charity work throughout his lengthy career. Still, mainstream Hollywoo...’s loss was horrordom’s gain. From his first guttural grunts and hand gestures that brought alive the mute monster in Frankenstein, Karloff exhibited extraordinary brilliance in each performance. Even when forced to take unflattering parts in B productions, Karloff was the consummate professional. He always brought his A game. That dedication took what were originally throwaway parts and molded them like the craftsman he was into magnificent works of art. Here in the Boris Karloff Collection are five of those lesser known parts. No real monsters to speak of; Karloff shines in each film. Certainly these films can be described as diamonds in the rough, but leave it to Boris to teach us that there are no small films, at least not when the credits began with the name Karloff.

“Night Key” Karloff plays an inventor of a wireless alarm system. As often happens with Karloff’s characters, he’s ripped off by his partner who turns his system into a wealthy business for himself cutting Mallory (Karloff) out. But unlike other Karloff characters in this situation, Mallory seeks a non-violent revenge. What Mallory creates, he can also destroy as “Night Key”. Using his own device, Mallory, along with a small time crook, breaks into shops protected by his old partner’s firm, but not to steal. He’s only trying to make a point, until the local head hood comes calling to use the device to line his pockets. Of course, this really isn’t a horror film at all, but Karloff will make it worth your while.