The film begins with William Powell being convicted in a French court of espionage and he is deported back to America. However, the French reconsider and plan on returning him to France when Powell jumps overboard and swims for shore in New York. Once there, he has a devil of a time finding work since it is during the Depression and since his reputation was ruined over the conviction. Eventually, he does land on his feet when he partners up with a two-bit private detective with very questionable morals. Through Powell's business acumen and skills as a detective, the agency is able to grow and prosper. Unfortunately, his partner is even more shady and corrupt than he imagined--leading to a dandy climax.
Over the years I have become a real fan of the films of William Powell--mostly because he was able to make his performances look so natural and relaxed. In this film, you have a somewhat ordinary plot that comes to life thanks to Powell. This mystery-action film isn't much like his later THIN MAN films, though it is still pretty exciting and well worth a look.
Over the years I have become a real fan of the films of William Powell--mostly because he was able to make his performances look so natural and relaxed. In this film, you have a somewhat ordinary plot that comes to life thanks to Powell. This mystery-action film isn't much like his later THIN MAN films, though it is still pretty exciting and well worth a look.