Frankenstein (1931 film) 12, 1931, "Dracula" starring Bela Lugosi had sold 50,000 tickets, building a momentum that culminated in a $700,000 profit, the largest of Universal's 1931 releases. As a result, the head of production, Carl Laemmle Jr., announced immediate plans for more horror films. Immediately, following his success in "Dracula", Bela Lugosi had hoped to play Dr. Frankenstein in Universal's original film concept. However, the actor was expected by producer Carl Laemmle Jr. to play the monster (a common move for a contract player in a film studio at the time) to keep his famous name on the bill. After several disastrous
John Abbey (actor) film "Play Time". John Abbey (actor) John Abbey (born June 21, 1935) is an American born actor best known for portraying the title role in the French film "Mr. Freedom", directed by fellow American expatriate William Klein. Born in Denver, Colorado in 1935, Abbey appeared in a few uncredited roles in American and English films before coming to France, where he played American characters in film and television throughout the 1960s and 1970s. He has since retired from acting. He spoke fluent French as well. In addition to "Mr. Freedom", Abbey is known for his supporting role as "Lacs" in