The Dain Curse
Hard-boiled private dick Hamilton Nash is hired to investigate a case of stolen diamonds, which leads him to a lovely and odd young woman named Gabrielle, who believes she has been stricken with the ancient curse of the Dain family. The curse has historically caused its victims to die prematurely.
Insights
Plot Summary
Private investigator Max Logan is hired by a wealthy businessman to recover a stolen emerald necklace. The investigation leads him into a labyrinth of deceit, murder, and a long-hidden family curse. Logan uncovers a tragic past connected to the infamous Dain family and a series of unsolved crimes.
Critical Reception
As a television movie adaptation of a Dashiell Hammett novel, "The Dain Curse" received a mixed to positive reception. Critics often praised its complex plot and the performances of its lead actors, though some found the pacing slow and the story convoluted. It is generally regarded as a decent, if somewhat lengthy, mystery thriller for its time.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its intricate mystery plot and atmospheric tension.
- Noted for solid performances from its ensemble cast, particularly James Coburn.
- Some found the adaptation to be overly long and complicated for a television format.
Google audience: Audience reception information for this 1978 television movie is not readily available in a consolidated format.
Fun Fact
This television film adaptation of Dashiell Hammett's novel was presented in two parts, originally airing on CBS over two consecutive nights in November 1978.
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