Perennial second-lead, Ralph Bellamy, has the star part in the 4-picture "Inspector Trent" series.
The first of these Columbia "B" entries, Before Midnight (1933) is heavy on atmosphere but short on credibility.
True, the plot presents some fascinating permutations of the usual mystery thrillers. I like the idea of the two principals switching their identities, but writer Robert Quigley is unable to come up with any reason at all for this startling plot development. Yes, a reason is certainly given at the time, but it is later revealed to be a lie! And that's not the only plot twist by far that's just simply left hanging.
Nonetheless, Claude Gillingwater battles gamely against the script and right up to the end, almost succeeds in presenting a believable characterization.
George Cooper (as Bellamy's offsider), Betty Blythe and William Jeffrey also excel.
(Formerly available on a fair quality VintageFilmBuff DVD).
The first of these Columbia "B" entries, Before Midnight (1933) is heavy on atmosphere but short on credibility.
True, the plot presents some fascinating permutations of the usual mystery thrillers. I like the idea of the two principals switching their identities, but writer Robert Quigley is unable to come up with any reason at all for this startling plot development. Yes, a reason is certainly given at the time, but it is later revealed to be a lie! And that's not the only plot twist by far that's just simply left hanging.
Nonetheless, Claude Gillingwater battles gamely against the script and right up to the end, almost succeeds in presenting a believable characterization.
George Cooper (as Bellamy's offsider), Betty Blythe and William Jeffrey also excel.
(Formerly available on a fair quality VintageFilmBuff DVD).