Directed by Lee Sholem, Pharaoh's Curse is a B-movie horror film that refreshingly attempts to deviate from the typical mummy narrative. Set against the backdrop of Egypt in 1902, writer Richard H. Landau introduces elements of civil unrest in the opening, adding so much needed depth, even if the ending is sadly somewhat flat.
Diane Brewster portrays Sylvia Quentin, the wife of the expedition leader, and Ziva Rodann plays Simira, a mysterious woman with a supernatural connection, both are memorable and notable. Their performances contribute to the unique narrative within the genre. Both Mark Dana as the dashing Captain Storm and George N. Neise with limited screen time as Robert Quentin are notable. However, the creepy factor, with some solid undead makeup and special effects by the crew belong to Alvaro Guillot's performance as Numar.
While the atmosphere is commendable and complemented by Les Baxter's music, William Margulies' black-and-white cinematography and set design effectively convey isolation and claustrophobia. In contrast, it does feel older than 1957 and has moments that feel like a black & white Tarzan adventure, rather than a mummy horror, despite Sholem's snappy direction.
Overall, thanks to Brewster and Rodann's presence despite its shortcomings Sholem's overlooked Pharaoh's Curse offers an engaging outing for fans of vintage horror cinema.
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