Movie spotlight
By Whose Hand?
On the night express train from Los Angeles to San Francisco everyone’s a suspect when a jewelry magnate is found stabbed to death and an escaped killer is feared on board. It’s up to newspaper reporter Jimmy Hawley (Ben Lyon) to unravel the secrets of the motley group of passengers and find the killer before he strikes again in this tense and atmospheric whodunit.
Insights
Plot Summary
A wealthy industrialist is found murdered in his study, and the police suspect his estranged son. However, a private detective is brought in to uncover the truth, delving into a complex web of family secrets, business dealings, and potential blackmail.
Critical Reception
As an early British crime thriller, 'By Whose Hand?' is noted for its atmospheric suspense and a competent whodunit plot. While not a landmark film, it was generally well-received for its engaging mystery and solid performances, characteristic of the era's B-movies.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its intriguing mystery plot and suspenseful pacing.
The performances, particularly from the lead detective, are considered effective.
It offers a satisfactory, albeit straightforward, crime-solving narrative.
Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available for this early film.
Fun Fact
Basil Radford, who plays a minor role, would later become famous for his performances in many classic Ealing comedies and horror films.
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