Question 1

Why was Night Key made despite Universal's belief that horror was dead?

Accepted Answer

Universal's new owners in 1936 thought horror was commercially dead but inherited a contract requiring Boris Karloff to make one more film, so they commissioned a non-horror story.

Question 2

How did Night Key end up in Universal's Shock Theater TV package?

Accepted Answer

Due to Boris Karloff's presence and a slight sci-fi angle, the film was included in Universal's Shock Theater package of 52 titles released to TV in 1957.

Question 3

What caused Night Key to go over budget and schedule?

Accepted Answer

The B picture was shot in 27 days for $192,000, exceeding budget by 6 days and $17,000 due to director Lloyd Corrigan's inexperience and Boris Karloff's insistence on 8-hour workdays.

Question 4

Why does the main title music seem mismatched with the film's theme?

Accepted Answer

The main title music was recycled from the 1935 Universal outdoor drama 'Stormy', which also starred Jean Rogers, making it inconsistent with the crime/thriller theme.

Question 5

Who plays the inventor David Mallory in Night Key?

Accepted Answer

Boris Karloff plays David Mallory, the inventor of a burglar alarm system who is kidnapped by a gang to help them commit robberies.

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Night Key

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