Tall, Dark and Gruesome 1948
"SCREWY HUGH'S HOWLINGIST HIT!"
In the cozy chaos of a remote mountain cabin, comedy legend Hugh Herbert finds himself at the center of a hilariously hair-raising adventure in *Tall, Dark and Gruesome (1948)*.
Director: Del Lord
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tall, Dark and Gruesome (1948) about?
Hugh Herbert rents a secluded mountain cabin, only to discover that a crate on his doorstep contains a very active gorilla. What follows is a rapid-fire comedy of errors as Herbert tries—and fails—to avoid the chaos the creature brings to his peaceful retreat.
Who directed Tall, Dark and Gruesome?
The film was directed by Del Lord, a prolific filmmaker known for his work in comedy shorts during the 1940s.
Who stars in Tall, Dark and Gruesome?
The film features Hugh Herbert, Dudley Dickerson, Heinie Conklin, Ray Corrigan, Myron Healey, and Christine McIntyre in key roles.
Is Tall, Dark and Gruesome (1948) worth watching?
As a classic short comedy, *Tall, Dark and Gruesome* delivers quick, lighthearted fun with solid comedic timing and a fun premise. While it may not break new ground, its tight runtime and classic comedic style make it a charming pick for fans of early Hollywood humor.
How long is Tall, Dark and Gruesome?
The film runs for 16 minutes.
About Tall, Dark and Gruesome (1948) — Classic Comedy Short with a Gorilla Surprise
In the cozy chaos of a remote mountain cabin, comedy legend Hugh Herbert finds himself at the center of a hilariously hair-raising adventure in *Tall, Dark and Gruesome (1948)*. Directed by the sharp-eyed Del Lord, this short comedy thriller delivers a rapid-fire mix of slapstick and suspense as a surprise delivery arrives in the form of a very live gorilla. Herbert, known for his eccentric charm and lightning-fast delivery, navigates a series of escalating mishaps with classic comedic flair, blending physical humor with the thrill of the unexpected. The film's playful tone and snappy pacing create a delightfully tense atmosphere, where every creak of the floorboards and rustle of unseen movement ratchets up the laughs—and the surprises.
With its roots in early Hollywood's golden age of shorts, *Tall, Dark and Gruesome* is a snapshot of mid-century comedy, where timing and visual gags reign supreme. The 16-minute runtime keeps the energy high, and the cast—including the scene-stealing Dudley Dickerson and the always dependable Christine McIntyre—adds layers of personality to every scene. It's a reminder that big laughs often come in small packages, wrapped in a storyline that's as unpredictable as it is entertaining.