Friday, May 3, 2019

Charlie Chan in the Secret Service (1944)

An important scientist (John Elliot) is found dead after perfecting a new invention for the war effort in his posh mansion. Charlie Chan (Sidney Tober) is bought in to investigate the case. Secret plans have gone missing too and when an autopsy reveals the scientist did not die of natural causes Chan is investigating a murder... and possible espionage.

So this is an interesting variation on the Golden Age dark mansion theme. Chan works his way through the assorted characters who were also staying in the house, who all declare their innocence of course. There is a sinister evil eye watching proceedings who is probably less innocent...

Chan is "assisted" by his daughter (Marianne Quon) and son (Benson Fong) and also chauffeur Birmingham Brown (Mantan Moreland) - although not working for Chan in this film. This is entertaining Charlie Chan fare though not one of the best in the canon. The wartime setting gives the film a slightly darker edge.