Adapted from the play by Janet Green and directed by David Miller this film confirms the rather romanticised idea that our American cousins had about London whose detectives from Scotland Yard were perfect gents and which was wrapped in perpetual fog.
The plot of this film is utterly ludicrous but the playing of it generally excellent. Rex Harrison, immaculate as always, was stricken with grief over the death of Kay Kendall and found co-star Doris Day very supportive. Miss Day herself is beautifully costumed by Irene and beautifully lit by Russell Metty. Her role requires her to be in a perpetual state of hysteria and there is no doubting that it took a great deal out of her emotionally, especially the pivotal scene where she collapses on the stairs. This draining experience probably prompted her to stick to comedies thereafter! Classy Herbert Marshall and Myrna Loy are there as red herring and supportive friend respectively. Splendid John Williams simply reprises his role as the Inspector in 'Dial M for Murder'. The killer from that earlier film, Anthony Dawson, also turns up as yet another red herring whilst John Gavin does his customary impression of a cigar store Indian. Harrison's accomplice is played by the fascinating Natasha Parry in a rare film appearance.
Dismissed by many as sub-standard Hitchcock this glossy production by Ross Hunter is harmless, unpretentious fare and cannot fail to entertain providing one comes to it without too many expectations and enjoys it for what it is.
The plot of this film is utterly ludicrous but the playing of it generally excellent. Rex Harrison, immaculate as always, was stricken with grief over the death of Kay Kendall and found co-star Doris Day very supportive. Miss Day herself is beautifully costumed by Irene and beautifully lit by Russell Metty. Her role requires her to be in a perpetual state of hysteria and there is no doubting that it took a great deal out of her emotionally, especially the pivotal scene where she collapses on the stairs. This draining experience probably prompted her to stick to comedies thereafter! Classy Herbert Marshall and Myrna Loy are there as red herring and supportive friend respectively. Splendid John Williams simply reprises his role as the Inspector in 'Dial M for Murder'. The killer from that earlier film, Anthony Dawson, also turns up as yet another red herring whilst John Gavin does his customary impression of a cigar store Indian. Harrison's accomplice is played by the fascinating Natasha Parry in a rare film appearance.
Dismissed by many as sub-standard Hitchcock this glossy production by Ross Hunter is harmless, unpretentious fare and cannot fail to entertain providing one comes to it without too many expectations and enjoys it for what it is.