Posing as an archaeologist in the wilds of Cambodia, Moto is undercover trying stop a plot to overthrow the government. He is joined by an aviatrix whose plane has crashed and a couple of bumbling newsreel photographers.
This was a first time viewing for me. Not sure how I've missed it in the past. Overall, a very satisfying and entertaining experience. First off, I was struck with how different Mr Moto Takes a Chance is from the other Moto films I've seen. If I remember correctly, the rest have a more cosmopolitan setting (at least in part) than this one. The usual urban locations are exchanged for the jungle setting here. But it works. In fact, the sets look spectacular - and that's no mean feat given the budget limitations the director, Norman Foster, was working with. The movie flows nicely with hardly a wasted scene. There's plenty of menace and surprises to keep you on your toes. Cinematography is very nice and also doesn't show budget limitations. Technically, it's as good as you'd expect.
As far as the acting goes, all I really need to say is Peter Lorre. He's always (and I mean always) good. I don't know if I've ever seen a bad performance. Rochelle Hudson proves to be Lorre's equal. She really stands out in her scenes - even those with Lorre. George Regas is also worth mentioning. His menacing portrayal of Bokor is another highlight. The rest are more than adequate.
Overall, a fine, fun film that I easily rate a 7/10.
This was a first time viewing for me. Not sure how I've missed it in the past. Overall, a very satisfying and entertaining experience. First off, I was struck with how different Mr Moto Takes a Chance is from the other Moto films I've seen. If I remember correctly, the rest have a more cosmopolitan setting (at least in part) than this one. The usual urban locations are exchanged for the jungle setting here. But it works. In fact, the sets look spectacular - and that's no mean feat given the budget limitations the director, Norman Foster, was working with. The movie flows nicely with hardly a wasted scene. There's plenty of menace and surprises to keep you on your toes. Cinematography is very nice and also doesn't show budget limitations. Technically, it's as good as you'd expect.
As far as the acting goes, all I really need to say is Peter Lorre. He's always (and I mean always) good. I don't know if I've ever seen a bad performance. Rochelle Hudson proves to be Lorre's equal. She really stands out in her scenes - even those with Lorre. George Regas is also worth mentioning. His menacing portrayal of Bokor is another highlight. The rest are more than adequate.
Overall, a fine, fun film that I easily rate a 7/10.