The Maltese Falcon (1941) - 4/5

This movie hits all the film noir staples, from the world-weary private eye hired by a dame at the end of her rope, to the twisting larger-than-life narrative. It stays very close to the source material, which portrays its protagonist as if Dashiell Hammett had Humphrey Bogart in mind. Its characters are complex and subtle, so casual viewers will be easily lost, but a more attentive audience will be rewarded with an intricate web of lies and deceit. There’s no substitute for the golden dialogue delivery and pre-war era style that easily cements itself as a time-tested classic.

Closest comparison: It’s like a less sleazy Chinatown by way of The Big Sleep (1946).

Setting: Drama
Plot: Detective
Tone: Noir

The Kennel Murder Case (1933) - 3/5

This movie is an all-around decent representation of the ‘30s mystery genre. It’s equally about the investigation and keeping the story moving along, but the mystery and characters get somewhat pushed aside. There’s enough of an interesting case to keep the audience entertained for the duration, but it’s not compelling enough to be memorable after the credits roll.

Closest comparison: It’s a run-of-the-mill suit-and-tie mystery like any other

Setting: Drama
Plot: Mystery
Tone: Drama