Dressed to Kill

Rating:
Summary: A Mystery where Cheap Music Boxs are Invaluable!!
Review: +++++

This movie is adapted from a story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859 to 1930). This was the last movie in which Basil Rathbone played Sherlock Holmes. (This was also the first time I saw Rathbone play Holmes.)

This movie is concerned with stolen counterfeit Bank of England money plates. Of all things, cheap, identical music boxes that play an old Australian song and that were made in prison by the same inmate seem to hold the key to the plates' hidden location. Also interested in these music boxes are three of this inmate's partners in crime: Mrs. Hilda Courtney (Patricia Morison), Colonel Cavanaugh (Fred Worlock), and Driver Hamid Yard (Harry Cording).

When murders start occurring, Scotland Yard is called in to investigate. As well, the super-sleuth along with his trusty sidekick Dr. Watson (Nigel Bruce) help with the investigation. An attempted murder also occurs.

Basil Rathbone captures the essence of the famous gumshoe in his performance. Nigel Bruce as his bumbling aid also gives a superb and, to me, an unforgettable performance. Also, look for the fine performance of Patricia Morrison as one of the partners in crime.

This movie is like a time capsule of 1940s London. As well, the background music adds to each scene.

Finally, extras include two original Sherlock Holmes radio broadcasts. I found these very interesting.

In conclusion, this is a fun movie that I feel serves as an excellent introduction to Basil Rathbone portraying Sherlock Holmes.

(1946; 70 min; black and white; full screen)

+++++