The Doctor's Horrible Experiment (Le Testament du Docteur Cordelier)

The Doctor's Horrible Experiment (Le Testament du Docteur Cordelier) (1959)

  • 100% of critics liked it
    (6 reviews)

  • 33% want to see it
    (221 ratings)

Unrated, 1 hr. 35 min.
Directed By
Jean Renoir
Genres
Drama, Horror

Critic Reviews

  • Dennis Schwartz, Ozus' World Movie Reviews

    An enjoyable and subversive parody on both B-film horror stories from the 1950s and mental health caregivers by legendary French director Jean Renoir.

  • Fernando F. Croce, CinePassion

    Picnic on the Grass suggests the harmony between mind and libido, but here Renoir savors the possibilities of the human split

  • Doug Cummings, Filmjourney

    It's the kind of role that can inspire brilliance, and Barrault is remarkable, suggesting a deranged mime who moves in a series of spasms and ticks before breaking into wild, inexplicable violence.

  • Jeremy Heilman, MovieMartyr.com

    By stressing the universal elements of Stevenson's story, Renoir eradicates the creakiness of the plot, spinning the tale into something that still feels relevant.

  • Sean Axmaker, Turner Classic Movies Online

    The film shifts tones and rhythms almost uncomfortably...

Read all 6 critic reviews

Critic ratings and reviews powered by RottenTomatoes.com

Fresh (60% or more critics rated the movie positively)

Rotten (59% or fewer critics rated the movie positively)

Featured Audience Ratings

  • vieras e


    The last half an hour is brilliant. Unfortunately what comes before it is rather dull.

  • George M


    Not one of Renoir's best, but just looking at Jean-Louis Barrault's double performance it is enough!

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