Jim Dooley’s review published on Letterboxd:
I had never seen this version of THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES until the mid-1970's. I remember being in college, and much fuss was made about restoring the original version of the film ... "Back From The Vaults." Of course, the restoration consisted of little more than striking new prints and restoring Holmes' final line ... a reference to his cocaine habit. But, it was a great deal of fun to see.
The other Fox film and the 12 "modern day" Universal films had been a staple on television for some time. HOUND, the first Sherlock Holmes movie to star Basil Rathbone from Fox, was not among them. So, this was a treat.
Before Benedict Cumberbatch, Jonny Lee Miller, Jeremy Brett, Christopher Lee and Peter Cushing, Basil Rathbone was THE Sherlock Holmes to a generation of film goers and television matinee viewers. There was something about his voice combined with perfect mannerisms that brought the Great Detective alive for so many people. Rathbone grew tired of the character, which is hardly surprising with the number of movies and radio shows, but he was always a delight in the role.
This first film in the series is, to my mind, the best interpretation done of THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES for the screen. Although there's a romance that was not in the Conan-Doyle original, the setting is very atmospheric, the characters are beautifully portrayed, and the mystery (for those who had not read the book) was thrilling.
Although the Rathbone Holmes has been praised, much fault was found with the Nigel Bruce interpretation of Dr. Watson. There is no doubt that Bruce played him for humor, as his Watson was often befuddled. Yet, though not true to the stories, he provided an excellent counter-point to the seriousness and intensity of Holmes. He was not the gentleman of the stories, but he was enjoyable.
The star here was Richard Greene, accustomed to playing leading men with aplomb. His claim to fame would eventually be his portrayal of Robin Hood on television, but he is a most likable and capable Sir Henry Baskerville in this film.
Wendy Barrie is the romantic transplant into the story as Beryl Stapleton, and Morton Lowery is excellent as her step-brother, John Stapleton. Very able support is also provided by Lionel Atwill and John Carradine.
Sidney Lanfield directs a very stylish, atmospheric and mysterious film. It perfectly captures the feel of Conan-Doyle's story.
That same year, Fox would follow-up on the success of HOUND with THE ADVENTURES OF SHERLOCK HOLMES. It was the last of the original period pieces for Basil Rathbone's Sherlock Holmes. With the move to Universal, Holmes would be updated to the 1940's.
But, for now, THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES is with us. Enjoy the film, and beware the moor!