Cipher Bureau

When a mysterious coded message is intercepted, a brilliant but eccentric cryptographer, Dr. Adams, is called in to decipher it. The message points to a dangerous espionage plot involving stolen government secrets and a shadowy organization known as the 'Black Hand.' As Adams delves deeper, he finds himself entangled in a web of intrigue, facing danger from multiple fronts as he races against time to expose the conspirators.

Cipher Bureau was a modest B-movie production typical of the era, receiving a generally lukewarm reception. Critics at the time often noted its convoluted plot and reliance on genre tropes, though some acknowledged the efforts of its cast, particularly Lionel Atwill in his role as the eccentric cryptographer. Its appeal was primarily to fans of mystery and espionage thrillers seeking straightforward entertainment.

• A formulaic but watchable B-movie mystery.
• Lionel Atwill's performance is a highlight.
• The plot can be confusing at times.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce due to the film's age and B-movie status, but general sentiment suggests it's a decent, if unmemorable, mystery thriller for its time.

The film's plot involves deciphering secret messages, a theme that was particularly popular in films during the lead-up to and during World War II, reflecting public interest in code-breaking and espionage.