This movie is a classic noir for good reason. It’s a straightforward plot with the real draw being the outstanding acting and dialogue.
Closest comparison: It’s like The Postman Always Rings Twice by way of Sunset Blvd.
Setting: Noir
Plot: Noir
Tone: Noir
This is one of the worst representations of Sherlock Holmes I’ve seen. The core duo’s characterizations are all over the place, more caricature than character. The idea behind the mystery is halfway decent, but the execution and resolution are pitiful. It’s also overly long; you could legitimately start this film at 33:20 and not miss anything.
Closest comparison: It’s like Scooby Doo under the guise of Sherlock Holmes.
Setting: Mystery
Plot: Detective
Tone: Mystery
This movie is a classic courtroom thriller with an excellent, cozy mystery style resolution. It’s clever and surprising in all the right ways, and the ending is Hitchcockian in its drama while being more Film Noir in its style. For period courtroom dramas you can’t do much better than this.
Closest comparison: It’s like The Mysterious Affair At Styles by way of Anatomy of a Murder.
Setting: Courtroom Drama
Plot: Cozy Mystery
Tone: Noir Thriller
