In the 1930s-40s, Hollywood made approximately 3045203540 B-detective films (give or take 1 or 2). And, as I have apparently seen most of them, they all start to blend together after a while. Because of this I was actually pretty relieved to see that this one is different--not necessarily that great but at least different.
The film itself is about two ladies who are on a train to go see one of the women's father--who she has never met. Apparently she's a long-lost heiress and doesn't know it. Unfortunately, she is also unknowingly being used as bait to get to the millionaire--as some crazy person wants to kill him. And, being crazy AND histrionic, he's come up with a very complicated and strange way to exact revenge.
The first really odd thing is the detective. Charlie Ruggles is about as unlike the typical detective as you find--small, a bit git goofy, and possibly a bit crazy. So, when he DOES act, it comes as a surprise--especially when he becomes a bit of an action hero! Second, although it's pretty obvious they were using a lot of camera tricks, the end of the film is unusually action-packed for a mystery. Third, the plot is a lot like what you might find in an over the top movie serial--especially with such gimmicks as the sliding steel plates and voice of doom when the killer confronts the millionaire--it's goofy but highly entertaining In fact, it's easy to admit that the film is pretty silly but somehow different enough to keep your interest.
By the way, talk about dehumanizing! Fred Toones (a black actor) is simply listed here as 'Snowflake' in the credits--as he was often credited in films. This appellation is a sad commentary on the times in which the film was made.
The film itself is about two ladies who are on a train to go see one of the women's father--who she has never met. Apparently she's a long-lost heiress and doesn't know it. Unfortunately, she is also unknowingly being used as bait to get to the millionaire--as some crazy person wants to kill him. And, being crazy AND histrionic, he's come up with a very complicated and strange way to exact revenge.
The first really odd thing is the detective. Charlie Ruggles is about as unlike the typical detective as you find--small, a bit git goofy, and possibly a bit crazy. So, when he DOES act, it comes as a surprise--especially when he becomes a bit of an action hero! Second, although it's pretty obvious they were using a lot of camera tricks, the end of the film is unusually action-packed for a mystery. Third, the plot is a lot like what you might find in an over the top movie serial--especially with such gimmicks as the sliding steel plates and voice of doom when the killer confronts the millionaire--it's goofy but highly entertaining In fact, it's easy to admit that the film is pretty silly but somehow different enough to keep your interest.
By the way, talk about dehumanizing! Fred Toones (a black actor) is simply listed here as 'Snowflake' in the credits--as he was often credited in films. This appellation is a sad commentary on the times in which the film was made.