This is a complex film noir along the same lines of "The Maltese Falcon", ironically also featuring Lee Patrick again playing the wisecracking secretary. It starts with the discovery of a dead priest, allegedly having committed suicide and the mystery surrounding missing Bibles that are extremely valuable. Detective Lee Bowman is on the case and soon finds himself discussing the case with the mysterious Marguerite Chapman who seems to have more than just a passing interest in the case. then there's a missionary couple, George McCready and Katherine Emery, who aren't above pulling a gun in their attempt to find the Bible's as well. Other interested parties include wealthy Edgar Buchanan and J. Edward Bromberg, and it's clear that none of them are truly on the level.
Pay close attention or you'll miss important clues and details that will help you along in this complicated thriller. the antagonism between Bowman and Chapman makes for an interesting chemistry between the leading male and female, and she is a very interesting femme fatale. The script is witty and intelligent but often seems to be trying to be too smart and there lies it's main fault. a good story doesn't need to try too hard and should keep the audience engaged without making them confused. Everything comes together nicely but certain moments might have the viewer tempted to rewind. the biblical references are very interesting, with Patrick actually scoring top acting honors simply for reading the scriptures and later figuring something else out which she presents to Bowman. Excellent dark photography, film editing and mysterious characters add up for a film that nearly works but could have easily tone the attitude down a bit.
Pay close attention or you'll miss important clues and details that will help you along in this complicated thriller. the antagonism between Bowman and Chapman makes for an interesting chemistry between the leading male and female, and she is a very interesting femme fatale. The script is witty and intelligent but often seems to be trying to be too smart and there lies it's main fault. a good story doesn't need to try too hard and should keep the audience engaged without making them confused. Everything comes together nicely but certain moments might have the viewer tempted to rewind. the biblical references are very interesting, with Patrick actually scoring top acting honors simply for reading the scriptures and later figuring something else out which she presents to Bowman. Excellent dark photography, film editing and mysterious characters add up for a film that nearly works but could have easily tone the attitude down a bit.