Movie spotlight
The Five-Forty
Set in Paris (which looks more like Budapest), the story concerns a murder investigation conducted by one Judge Henri Tessier. The audience is led to believe that Robert Petrovich, estranged husband of Tessier's sweetheart Marion, is responsible for the murder.
Insights
Plot Summary
A wealthy industrialist is murdered, and a young boy, known for his keen observation skills, becomes the key witness. Detective Bob Nolan must race against time to piece together the clues and identify the killer among a group of suspects, all before the crucial 5:40 train departs, which is believed to be connected to the crime.
Critical Reception
While not a widely reviewed film today, contemporary reactions likely focused on its B-movie status, typical of the era's crime procedurals. It was seen as a serviceable, albeit unremarkable, mystery.
What Reviewers Say
A standard mystery plot with predictable twists.
Relies on formulaic crime drama tropes.
Competent direction and acting for its budget.
Google audience: Audience reception information for this film is not readily available through Google user reviews.
Fun Fact
This film is part of Warner Bros.' 'The Lone Wolf' series, though Warren William's character, Bob Nolan, is not Michael Lanyard (The Lone Wolf) but rather a detective who collaborates with the official Lone Wolf character in other entries.
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