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Island of Lost Souls (1932)

Island of Lost Souls is a 1932 American pre-Code science-fiction horror film, and the first sound film adaptation of H. G. Wells' 1896 novel The Island of Dr. Moreau. Produced by Paramount Pictures, the film was directed by Erle C. Kenton, from a script co-written by science fiction author Philip Wylie. It stars Charles Laughton, Richard Arlen, Leila Hyams, Bela Lugosi, and Kathleen Burke. The plot centers on a remote South Pacific island where mad scientist, Dr. Moreau, secretly conducts experiments to accelerate evolution in plants and animals, with horrific consequences.

Featuring depictions of cruelty, animal-human hybrids, and irreligious ideas, the release of Island of Lost Souls was embroiled in controversy. Banned in some countries for decades, Island of Lost Souls has become an influential film and has acquired cult film status.