The Mummy’s Hand (1940)

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In the second of Universal’s Mummy series, two American archaeologists partner with a wealthy magician and his daughter to find the hidden Tomb of Ananka in Egypt. Their quest is hampered by a secret organization determined to protect the tomb’s whereabouts, for fear any visitors might accidentally awaken the mummy who protects it.

The Mummy’s Hand lacks distinction, but still manages to somewhat satisfy on a serial-matinee level. The cast is a mixed bag, with Cecil Kellaway’s affable magician character coming out as most valuable player. Wallace Ford (Freaks) gets credit for providing much-needed comic relief. It’s great to see the title character on screen more than in the original film — especially with creepy eyes that were colored black through animation — even if director Christy Cabanne and actor Tom Tyler barely scrape the surface of the monster’s potential.

With Dick Foran, Peggy Moran, Eduardo Ciannelli, and George Zucco.