I don't hate this film, but I'd certainly never take the time to watch it again, either. I realize that this is a 1931 film, but it really appears very amateurish in many respects.
First of all is the acting, especially the first 10 minutes or so. The actors/actresses were horrible - completely unnatural, uncomfortable, and not believable. Second, where are the subtitles for Warner Oland, Bela Lugosi, and the actor that played the part of blondie's ex-husband? I seriously couldn't understand half of what they said - horrid accents, plus bad mic technique, bad equipment...all of the above? (My copy of this film is great quality, so I think the problem lies in the production.) This is one of my main beefs with this flick. Third, Warner Oland didn't seem to portray the warm, lovable Chan of later years. This Chan is kind of a nasty, smart-ass. Actually, not too many of the characters here are very likable. Also, who are all the people in blondie's house when she gets killed? Why are they there? Did I miss something? We were never (or not clearly) introduced to them. Last, who the hell is the maniac that is Chan's assistant? He's like the Rain Man on speed. I kind of hate him and kind of like him at the same time. I just wanted someone to punch him.
I was very disappointed with this film, and I was shocked to see all the high votes that it received. I'm not a big fan of the Monogram Chan's, but most were better than this. Only hardcore Chan lovers could appreciate this movie.
First of all is the acting, especially the first 10 minutes or so. The actors/actresses were horrible - completely unnatural, uncomfortable, and not believable. Second, where are the subtitles for Warner Oland, Bela Lugosi, and the actor that played the part of blondie's ex-husband? I seriously couldn't understand half of what they said - horrid accents, plus bad mic technique, bad equipment...all of the above? (My copy of this film is great quality, so I think the problem lies in the production.) This is one of my main beefs with this flick. Third, Warner Oland didn't seem to portray the warm, lovable Chan of later years. This Chan is kind of a nasty, smart-ass. Actually, not too many of the characters here are very likable. Also, who are all the people in blondie's house when she gets killed? Why are they there? Did I miss something? We were never (or not clearly) introduced to them. Last, who the hell is the maniac that is Chan's assistant? He's like the Rain Man on speed. I kind of hate him and kind of like him at the same time. I just wanted someone to punch him.
I was very disappointed with this film, and I was shocked to see all the high votes that it received. I'm not a big fan of the Monogram Chan's, but most were better than this. Only hardcore Chan lovers could appreciate this movie.