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Eric Miller-2
Reviews
The Headline Woman (1935)
From the "Reporter" sub-genre
In the 1930's, there were several mystery/suspense movies centered around brazen but morally correct newsmen. That a wisecracking reporter was so often a cinematic hero is reflective of the manifold changes undergone by the American media during the 20th century. History aside, "The Headline Woman" is one of the best of its kind.
The first part of the movie concerns a group of reporters who help promote a bumbling police officer to lieutenant detective to act as a leak after the commissioner attempts to ban police reports. The title character doesn't actually appear till midway through the film - during the nightclub sequence which serves as the highlight.
William Nigh's direction is more than competent, and the cast is great. Ford Sterling's reputation as Chief of the Keystone Kops makes his role especially ironic. 9/10.
Tomorrow at Seven (1933)
Ralph Spence at his Best (and Allen Jenkins)
I think this qualifies as an "Old Dark House" film. Most of it takes place in a house, which is indeed both old and dark. Ralph Spence penned the typically high-quality script - it's impossible to guess the killer.
What really makes the film is the comic relief in the form of incompetent detectives played by Frank McHugh and Allen Jenkins. Actually, they're in the film as much as the leads. I'm a big Allen Jenkins fan. His Depression-era dumb guy persona brought a charm to every film it graced that's totally missing in today's actors. 8/10.
The Secret Witness (1931)
Average 1931 mystery
The best thing about this movie is the Art Deco set design of the apartments. It's not bad, but I can't really recommend it (unless you're a Zasu Pitts completist or something). I'll give it a 6/10.
One Frightened Night (1935)
Above average, low budget mystery-comedy
For fans of 1930's Poverty Row, the very presence of a storm-battered mansion elicits a pleasant feeling, and makes otherwise unforgivable flaws within the film bearable. I've never seen an "Old Dark House" movie I didn't like, but some are definitely better than others. Case in point: "One Frightened Night."
Starting with an ingenious credit sequence, the movie consistently offers an awareness of its own cliches. This refreshingly tounge-in-cheek-attitude - along with top-notch acting and pacing - make it a superior product. Everything seems to click. I recommend this as an intro to Old Dark House movies. 10/10.