Mystery

Death in the Air (1936)

3/5 (1)

“Death in the Air” is a novel by Agatha Christie, first published in 1935 under the title “Death in the Clouds.” The novel features Christie’s famous detective, Hercule Poirot, and is set in a passenger plane traveling from Paris to Croydon.

The story begins with Poirot traveling on the same plane as a group of passengers, including a French moneylender named Madame Giselle, a famous actress named Jane Grey, a young doctor named Bryant, and a wealthy businessman named Hastings. During the flight, Madame Giselle suddenly dies from a poisoned dart, and it becomes clear that one of the other passengers on the plane must be the murderer.

Poirot sets out to investigate the murder and soon discovers a number of clues and suspects. Among them are a suspicious-looking woman who was seen leaving Madame Giselle’s seat just before the murder, a shady businessman who had borrowed money from the victim, and a young woman who had been acting strangely throughout the flight.

As Poirot delves deeper into the case, he begins to uncover a web of lies and deceit among the passengers, as well as a connection between Madame Giselle and a notorious criminal gang. With the help of his friend Hastings and the young doctor Bryant, Poirot ultimately identifies the murderer and brings them to justice.

“Death in the Air” is a classic Christie mystery with plenty of twists and turns, and features her trademark attention to detail and clever plotting. It is also notable for its unique setting on a passenger plane, which adds an extra layer of tension and claustrophobia to the story.

Directors:
Elmer Clifton

Writer:
Bernard McConville, Charles R. Condon

Stars:
Lona Andre, John Carroll, Leon Ames

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Carnival of Souls (1962)

4/5 (1)

“Carnival of Souls” is a horror film released in 1962, directed by Herk Harvey and starring Candace Hilligoss. The film tells the story of Mary Henry, a young woman who survives a car accident and finds herself drawn to a mysterious abandoned carnival.

As Mary tries to resume her life after the accident, she begins to experience strange and terrifying visions of a pale-faced man who seems to be following her wherever she goes. She also becomes increasingly isolated and detached from the people around her, leading her to question her own sanity.

As she delves deeper into the mystery of the carnival and the strange man who haunts her, Mary discovers a shocking secret that forces her to confront the reality of her own existence.

The film is known for its eerie and atmospheric cinematography, which creates a sense of foreboding and unease throughout. It also features a haunting musical score, composed by Gene Moore, that adds to the film’s haunting and unsettling atmosphere.

“Carnival of Souls” is often cited as a cult classic and a landmark of independent horror cinema. It explores themes of identity, isolation, and the fear of death, while also utilizing innovative techniques to create a sense of horror and unease.

Directors:
Herk Harvey

Writer:
John Clifford, Herk Harvey

Stars:
Candace Hilligoss, Frances Feist, Sidney Berger

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Cosmo Jones, Crime Smasher (1943)

3/5 (1)

“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

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Bulldog Drummond’s Revenge (1937)

3/5 (1)

“Bulldog Drummond’s Revenge” is a 1937 mystery film directed by Louis King and starring John Barrymore, John Howard, and Louise Campbell. The film is part of a series of movies based on the popular British detective character Bulldog Drummond, created by H.C. McNeile.

In this installment, Drummond (Howard) is called upon to investigate a series of burglaries and murders that appear to be connected to a criminal mastermind known only as “The Voice.” As he delves deeper into the case, Drummond discovers that The Voice has a personal vendetta against him and is determined to destroy him.

With the help of his faithful friend Algy (Reginald Denny), Drummond sets out to catch The Voice and clear his own name. Along the way, they encounter a variety of obstacles and challenges, including corrupt police officers and dangerous criminal associates.

“Bulldog Drummond’s Revenge” is known for its suspenseful atmosphere and intricate plot, as well as the dynamic performances of its cast. The film was one of several in the Bulldog Drummond series, which was popular during the 1930s and 1940s for its fast-paced action and charismatic leading man.

Directors:
Louis King

Writer:
Edward T. Lowe Jr., Herman C. McNeile

Stars:
John Barrymore, John Howard, Louise Campbell

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Bulldog Drummond in Africa (1938)

4/5 (1)

“Bulldog Drummond in Africa” is a 1938 adventure film directed by Louis King and starring John Howard, Heather Angel, and H.B. Warner. The film is part of a series of movies based on the popular British detective character Bulldog Drummond, created by H.C. McNeile.

In this installment, Drummond (Howard) and his fiancee Phyllis (Angel) travel to Africa to investigate the disappearance of an archeologist. Once they arrive, they discover that a mysterious and dangerous cult is responsible for the kidnapping, and that they are plotting to use the archeologist’s discovery to gain control of the region.

As they pursue the cult, Drummond and Phyllis face a variety of challenges and obstacles, including deadly animals and treacherous terrain. With the help of their African guide, they must navigate the dangers of the wilderness and outsmart the cult’s leaders in order to rescue the archeologist and stop their evil plans.

“Bulldog Drummond in Africa” is known for its thrilling action sequences and exotic setting, and was one of several films in the Bulldog Drummond series. The films were popular during the 1930s and 1940s and were known for their fast-paced action, suspense, and charismatic leading man.

Directors:
Louis King

Writer:
Garnett Weston, Herman C. McNeile

Stars:
John Howard, Heather Angel, H.B. Warner

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