Chandu on the Magic Island (1935): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1935, Chandu on the Magic Island is an action and fantasy film directed by Ray Taylor, running about 70 minutes.

What it’s about. On the mystic island of Lemuria, the cult of Ubasti seek the Egyptian Princess Nadji to sacrifice so that their goddess Ossana, whose soul resides in Nadji's body, may be resurrected by Black Magic. Nadji is located in the Far East port of Suva, but shielded by the White Magical powers of Frank Chandler, an American raised by Eastern mystics who is also known as Chandu. When Chandu takes a voyage alone, however, the evil Voice of Ubasti is able to magically spirit her to Lemuria, where Black Magic reigns supreme. Chandu sets out in pursuit with his sister Dorothy, niece Betty and nephew Bob; but, shipwrecked on the magic island, Chandu finds his family also held prisoner for sacrifice while he is plunged into an endless maze of caverns beneath the evil temple, where both his mortal and magical strength seem rendered useless.

Who’s in it. Chandu on the Magic Island stars Bela Lugosi as Frank Chandler (Chandu), Maria Alba as Princess Nadji, Murdock MacQuarrie as The Voice of the Ubasti and Clara Kimball Young as Dorothy Regent, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 4.8/10, Chandu on the Magic Island has proved divisive with audiences.

Where to watch. In US you can stream it on fuboTV, MGM+ Amazon Channel, Philo and MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel and rent or buy it from Amazon Video. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Chandu on the Magic Island page.

If you liked it. Fans of Chandu on the Magic Island tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Inception and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.