V

“Film historian-interviewer Gregory Mank got to the root of the mystery behind the actress’s curiously bird-like quality in her performance as the Bride: Lanchester’s conception of the part was based partially on observing the swans in Regents Park, particularly in the way they “hissed” when provoked. Staring wide-eyed, jerkily reacting to every movement around her, it’s a tightly coiled performance of sheer instinct and energy. The Bride’s “look” is a classic ’30s concept, more of a hairstyle than a makeup. Lanchester’s natural red hair was teased up in an unworldly, fright-wig style, a wavy white streak suggesting a baptism by lightning. It’s a cartoonish design, perhaps too over-the-top, but executed with Jack Pierce’s usual finesse and artistry.” –  Universal Horrors: The Studio’s Classic Films, 1931-1946, 2d ed., 2011, p.127

Vol.14 of MCU Commercial Design Journal