The Undying Monster (1942)

Starring James Ellison, Heather Angel, John Howard, Bramwell Fletcher, Heather Thatcher
Directed by John Brahm
(actor & director credits courtesy IMDB.com)

After two people are attacked on the grounds of a Scottish manor tied to legends of a supernatural monster, Scotland Yard sends two forensic experts to investigate.

The 20th Century Fox studio was still in its infancy as far as releasing horror films when this offering came along, and so the picture does appear heavily influenced by the horror output of rival Universal Pictures.  A period setting, dark and shadowy atmosphere, and the presence of actors from Universal's past classics, including Bramwell Fletcher and Halliwell Hobbes, all contribute to a Universal-like film.  The creature makeup even resembles one of Universal's own classic monster designs.  However, it is a different film with its own flavor, and seems content to take on the form of a mystery whodunit, downplaying the possibility of a monster's presence until the climax.  Ellison is fine as the chief investigator Robert Curtis, and is given an unusual sidekick in Heather Thatcher's brash Christy,  who invites herself to a meal before it's been served, and provides much of the film's comic relief.  The supporting performances, the film's photography, music score, and art direction are all very good, creating a believable haunted manor, and a compelling mystery.