“Cosmo Jones, Crime Smasher” is a crime-comedy film released in 1943, directed by James Tinling and starring Frank Graham as the titular character, Cosmo Jones. The film follows Cosmo, a bumbling police officer, as he tries to solve a series of crimes in his city.
Cosmo is initially assigned to guard a wealthy businessman named Mr. Grisson (played by Jerome Cowan), who is receiving threatening letters. However, things quickly become more complicated when Grisson is found dead and Cosmo becomes the prime suspect. Despite his incompetence, Cosmo is determined to clear his name and find the real killer.
As he investigates the case, Cosmo encounters a colorful cast of characters, including a seductive nightclub singer, a suspicious janitor, and a gang of thieves. Along the way, he stumbles into several slapstick situations, including a memorable scene in which he accidentally destroys a car while attempting to apprehend a suspect.
Despite his many mistakes, Cosmo eventually manages to crack the case and bring the criminals to justice. The film ends with Cosmo receiving a promotion and the admiration of his fellow officers.
Overall, “Cosmo Jones, Crime Smasher” is a lighthearted and entertaining film that blends elements of crime drama and comedy. The film showcases the comedic talents of Frank Graham and the enduring appeal of the crime genre in American cinema.
Directors:
James Tinling
Writer:
Michael L. Simmons, Walter Gering, Frank Graham
Stars:
Frank Graham, Edgar Kennedy, Gale Storm
