The film was originally announced for filming in early 1929 as a collaboration between Lon Chaney and Tod Browning.[2] By August 31, 1929, Victor Fleming had taken over as the director, but was replaced by Hunt Stromberg by October 2, 1929, and finally by Wesley Ruggles, as of January 20, 1930.[1] Some contemporary reports state that Lionel Barrymore as an additional director, but his name is not mentioned in any trades at the time of the production.[1]
Filming had begun by February 8, 1930, on location at Mazatlan, Mexico.[3][1]
Release
The Sea Bat was released July 5, 1930.[1] It was released in both sound and silent versions.[4]
Reception
From contemporary reviews, Photoplay declared the film as "Just another talkie, ho-hum!"[2]Variety felt the film started and ended with exciting scenes but that the middle of the film "sags from lack of expected action, especially following the humdinger opening."[2]The Bioscope praised the acting and the scenery as did Harrison's Reports, who praised the sea scenes and battles with the sea bat.[2]Motion Picture News praised the film for its pacing and location shooting.[2]
From retrospective reviews, Michael R. Pitts stated in his book Thrills Untapped that despite scenery and cinematography, the film was slow-paced and "a pale combination of Sadie Thompson (1928) and White Shadows in the South Seas (1928).[5]
