Mantan Moreland worked steadily as a fast talking sidekick during the 1930s and 1940s. After World War II and the advent of Civil Rights reform, Moreland became persona non grata to the black community. "Feets don't fail me now," would be something this fast talking wide eyed comedian would have said in one of his many movies when confronted by a ghost, monster or killer. In "King of the Zombies," Moreland steals the show with his energy.
During World War II, Moreland and his leading man crash land their airplane on a Caribbean Island. They are greeted by German Doctor with a big secret. This mad doctor is portrayed by Henry Victor, who was a tall leading man in the silent movies. The contrast in size between Moreland and King crates a stereotypical conflict that works.