The Bat (1959)
Directed by Crane Wilbur, The Bat is a stylish blend of mystery, horror, and old-dark-house suspense, starring two genre legends: Vincent Price and Agnes Moorehead. Based on the 1920 play by Mary Roberts Rinehart and Avery Hopwood, the film updates the classic stage thriller with mid-century noir touches and a chilling masked killer.
Plot Summary
Mystery novelist Cornelia Van Gorder (Agnes Moorehead) rents a secluded mansion known as “The Oaks,” unaware that it’s tied to a recent string of murders committed by a shadowy figure known only as The Bat. The killer wears black gloves and a mask, and strikes silently—leaving no clues.
As Cornelia investigates, she’s joined by Dr. Malcolm Wells (Vincent Price), a local physician with secrets of his own. The plot thickens with rumors of hidden money, embezzlement, and multiple suspects, including servants, police officers, and neighbors. The tension builds toward a classic drawing-room reveal, with twists and red herrings galore.
Cast Highlights
- Agnes Moorehead as Cornelia Van Gorder
- Vincent Price as Dr. Malcolm Wells
- Gavin Gordon as Lt. Andy Anderson
- John Sutton, Lenita Lane, and Elaine Edwards in supporting roles
Production Notes
- The film is one of several adaptations of The Bat, including silent versions from 1926 and 1930
- Vincent Price was at the height of his horror fame, bringing gravitas and ambiguity to his role
- Shot in black-and-white, with moody lighting and classic gothic interiors
- The screenplay retains the play’s theatrical structure, with much of the action confined to the mansion
- The Bat’s costume and silent attacks influenced later slasher film aesthetics
