While rarely considered to be one of Val Lewton's best films, ISLE OF THE DEAD does contain the producer's typically effective use of atmosphere. Set during the 1912 war on a Greek Island, the film focuses on six people who are staying on a remote island in order to escape the plague. Boris Karloff gives his typically strong performance as General Pherides, while Ellen Drew plays a Greek girl suspected of being a vampire. Constant winds and creepy sets illustrate each character's general anxiety as disease and suspicions build to a chilling climax.