Dangerous to Know
Racketeer Steve Recka, art patron and political power-maker, rules his town and Madame Lan Ying, his beautiful friend and hostess (read:mistress), with an iron hand. He meets Margaret Van Kase, a socialite not impressed by his power nor his wealth, having no money herself, and Steve makes frantic efforts to win her and turns away from the loyal Lin Yang.
Insights
Plot Summary
A ruthless and corrupt district attorney, seeking political advancement, orchestrates a complex scheme to frame a beautiful nightclub singer and her lover for a murder he committed. He manipulates evidence and witnesses, believing his cleverness will ensure his success. However, his carefully constructed web of deceit begins to unravel as the singer fights for her freedom and the truth.
Critical Reception
Dangerous to Know was a modest success upon its release, appreciated for its dark atmosphere and strong performances, particularly from Akim Tamiroff and Anna May Wong. While not a critical darling of its era, it has since gained a reputation as an effective, atmospheric film noir with a compelling plot and intriguing characters, often cited for its early use of noir conventions.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its suspenseful and intricate plot.
- Commended for the strong performances of its lead actors, especially Akim Tamiroff's villainous portrayal.
- Noted for its effective use of shadow and atmosphere, contributing to its noir sensibility.
Google audience: Audience reception is difficult to quantify due to limited available data from the period. However, historical reviews suggest appreciation for the film's crime drama elements and dramatic tension.
Fun Fact
The film was notable for featuring Anna May Wong in one of her most prominent roles, and her performance was often highlighted by critics as a standout.
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