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(1930, 1929, Paramount, Fox) Disc 1: The Benson Murder Case. William Powell, Eugene Pallette, William “Stage” Boyd, Paul Lucas, Natalie Moorhead. This was Powell’s second appearance as the dapper detective Philo Vance. He’s called in to investigate the shooting of a corrupt stockbroker at a remote country estate. Amidst a houseful of suspects with strong motives—ranging from disgruntled business associates to wronged acquaintances—Vance uses his cool logic and psychological insight to outmaneuver a baffled police sergeant and the local DA. Look for Mischa Auer in a small part. From 35mm.
Disc 2: Behind that Curtain. Warner Baxter, Lois Moran, Gilbert Emery, Boris Karloff, E. L. Park. This atmospheric thriller follows a woman's desperate flight across the globe to escape her murderous husband. The film is historically significant for featuring the first sound appearance of the legendary detective Charlie Chan (played by Park), who appears in the last part of the film and helps solve the crime. Much of this early talkie focuses on a Scotland Yard inspector's relentless pursuit of the killer through London, India, and eventually San Francisco. From 35mm.
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