The Phantom Creeps: Chapter 11 – The Blast (1939) Director: Ford Beebe, Saul A. Goodkind Studio: Universal Pictures Starring: Bela Lugosi (Dr. Alex Zorka), Conrad Nagel, Marian Marsh, Dave O’Brien Release Date: June 1939 Runtime: ~20 minutes (Chapter 11) Format: Black & White | Mono | Sound | Serial | Sci-Fi | Horror | Action Country: United States Language: English Genres: Science Fiction | Horror | Serial | Action | Thriller Summary: In Chapter 11 – "The Blast," Dr. Alex Zorka’s deadly plans reach a catastrophic crescendo as a massive explosion threatens to obliterate the heroes and everything they stand for. Tarzan and his allies face life-or-death stakes as they try to thwart Zorka’s destructive scheme and survive the violent blast that could end their fight for justice. This penultimate chapter combines high-stakes action, suspenseful confrontations, and dramatic tension, setting the stage for the thrilling finale of the serial. Background: The Blast marks the climax of mounting tension in The Phantom Creeps, utilizing explosive effects and fast-paced storytelling to ramp up excitement. Bela Lugosi’s chilling portrayal of the mad scientist is at its most intense as his machinations threaten widespread destruction. The serial’s combination of practical pyrotechnics, suspense, and cliffhangers helped define the thrilling style of 1930s Universal serials. Trivia: The explosion effects were created with practical pyrotechnics on the Universal backlot. Bela Lugosi’s character exhibits heightened desperation and villainy as his plans near fruition. This chapter’s cliffhanger left audiences eagerly awaiting the final showdown in the serial’s last installment. The Phantom Creeps influenced many later sci-fi and action serials with its blend of horror and technology. The serial is known for its creative use of special effects despite budget constraints. The “blast” motif represents both physical destruction and the shattering of the villain’s schemes. Hashtags: #PhantomCreeps #TheBlast #BelaLugosi #UniversalSerial #ClassicSerial #SciFiSerial #ExplosionScene #1930sHorror #VintageCinema #SerialCliffhanger #MadScientist #ClassicSciFi #HorrorSerial #FordBeebe #GoldenAgeCinema