Ellery Queen, Master Detective
Ellery Queen, Master Detective

Ellery Queen, Master Detective

1940Movie69 minEnglish

Famed detective and crime novelist Ellery Queen solves a case involving the suspicious death of a rich man whose inheritors fight over his estate.

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Insights

IMDb6.4/10
Director: James P. HoganGenres: Mystery, Crime, Film-Noir

Plot Summary

Ellery Queen, a brilliant amateur sleuth and mystery writer, is drawn into a perilous case when a wealthy industrialist is murdered during a dinner party. As Queen investigates the family and their associates, he uncovers a web of deceit, hidden motives, and potential suspects, all while racing against time to prevent another death. The investigation leads him through a series of clues and red herrings, testing his deductive skills to their limit.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'Ellery Queen, Master Detective' was met with a generally positive reception for its intriguing mystery plot and the performance of Ricardo Cortez as the titular detective. While not a groundbreaking film, it was appreciated for delivering a classic whodunit experience characteristic of the era, appealing to fans of the popular radio show and literary character.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its classic mystery setup and engaging plot.
  • Ricardo Cortez's portrayal of Ellery Queen was considered a highlight.
  • A satisfying, if conventional, whodunit for fans of the genre.

Google audience: Audience reviews are limited, but the film is generally seen as a solid entry in the detective genre, offering a well-structured mystery that engages viewers with its twists and turns.

Fun Fact

This film was one of several Ellery Queen adaptations produced by Columbia Pictures in the late 1930s and early 1940s, with Ricardo Cortez stepping into the role of the famous sleuth.

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