Murder by Television
James Houghland, inventor of a new method by which television signals can be instantaneously sent anywhere in the world, refuses to sell the process to television companies, who then send agents to acquire the invention any way they can. On the night of his initial broadcast Houghland is mysteriously murdered in the middle of his demonstration and it falls to Police Chief Nelson to determine who the murderer is from the many suspects present.
Insights
Plot Summary
A police detective investigates a series of murders that all seem to be connected to the new medium of television. As the killer's methods become more bizarre and deadly, the detective races against time to unmask the perpetrator before television itself becomes the instrument of his ultimate crime.
Critical Reception
This early foray into the 'killer uses new technology' trope was a curiosity of its time. While its low budget is evident, it's often praised for its atmospheric tension and its prescient themes regarding the potential dangers of emerging media. Critical reception at the time was mixed, with some appreciating its novelty and others finding its execution lacking.
What Reviewers Say
- Appreciated for its early exploration of technology-based crime.
- Criticized for its primitive special effects and somewhat convoluted plot.
- Considered an interesting, if flawed, historical artifact in the mystery genre.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this seldom-seen film. Those that exist generally acknowledge its historical significance as an early thriller involving television, but often point out its technical limitations and dated storytelling.
Fun Fact
This film is notable for being one of the earliest feature films to incorporate the then-new medium of television as a central plot device.
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