Boston Blackie may have been formulaic, but since the formula is a good one, why quibble? We can all root for the unjustly accused or even unjustly suspected and our man gets that distinction each and every time. The debut in sound flm stands out as a well made and fast moving film, moving from ocean liner to train boxcar to amusement park with gusto. Blackie's been accused this time of both theft and murder so naturally he enlists the aid of a woman who seems trusting from the getgo of his motives and ultimate innocence. Would that everyone could have such a friend! The plot points of Morse code secret communications, blinking lights signalling to ships at sea and Faraday's ever present frenemy status served to make this a fine entry in the series. The emphasis on spies made me edgy in realizing that America was not yet in the war, but certainly taking notice via Hollywood.
I have a glimmer what Rochelle Hudson's smile meant at close of film: just friendship, that's all, a friend who came into her life whom she helped because she believed in him and his cause of Truth, and that was all that was ever going to come of it and that's okay. There are folks like that in real life, too.
Morris' talent carries the whole series, fully enabled by Lane and crew; I admit to being fond of George E. Stone, who is waiting in the wings to take over the part of the Runt.
I have a glimmer what Rochelle Hudson's smile meant at close of film: just friendship, that's all, a friend who came into her life whom she helped because she believed in him and his cause of Truth, and that was all that was ever going to come of it and that's okay. There are folks like that in real life, too.
Morris' talent carries the whole series, fully enabled by Lane and crew; I admit to being fond of George E. Stone, who is waiting in the wings to take over the part of the Runt.