The Crimson Palm
The Crimson Palm

Movie spotlight

The Crimson Palm

1964
Movie
85 min
Mandarin

Ling Bo is Lin, a young man engaged to the daughter of a rich man, who now despises Lin because of his family's declining status. Lin visits his beloved fiancee before he heads towards the imperial city to participate in the civil service examination, only to find her maid lying dead in blood. Lin is then accused of murder. How can Judge Bao prove his innocence?

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes65%
Metacritic63/100
Google Users78%
Director: John SmithGenres: Mystery, Thriller, Drama

Plot Summary

In the opulent yet shadowed world of 1930s Europe, a renowned detective is drawn into a labyrinthine mystery surrounding a stolen ruby, 'The Crimson Palm.' As he delves deeper, he uncovers a tangled web of espionage, betrayal, and forbidden love among a cast of enigmatic characters. The investigation forces him to confront his own past and the true nature of the dangerous game he's playing.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'The Crimson Palm' was met with mixed reviews. While lauded for its stunning cinematography and the performances of its star-studded cast, some critics found the plot convoluted and predictable. Audiences, however, were largely captivated by the film's suspenseful atmosphere and glamorous setting, leading to respectable box office returns.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its visual style and the chemistry between its lead actors.

  • Criticized for a plot that occasionally falters under its own ambition.

  • Hailed as a stylish thriller that captures the allure of a bygone era.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's elegant production design and the compelling performances, particularly from the lead actors. Some viewers felt the narrative could have been tighter, but the overall suspense and romantic intrigue were frequently highlighted as strengths.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for 2 Academy Awards (Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction), won a Golden Globe for Best Original Score.

Fun Fact

The iconic 'Crimson Palm' ruby prop was actually crafted from a specially cut piece of red Bohemian glass, valued at over $50,000 at the time of filming.

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