The two Film Detective October 26, 2021 4K releases double down on the Detective tradition of showing the viewing public that it does not know what it is missing. Our topic du jour is the 1948 thriller "The Amazing Mr. X." An upcoming post will be on the "sister" release of the 1958 kiddie matinee cult-classic "Frankenstein's Daughter."
The icing on both cakes are the always insightful and entertaining Ballyho Films documentaries that are Detective staples.
The following SPOILERS-LADEN promo, which literally will make you say "Damnit, Janet" from Detective perfectly illustrates the awesomely atmospheric style of this literally hauntingly take on "Gaslight." These few minutes alone are sad reminders that they don't make 'em like that anymore.
Our story begins with heiress Christine hearing the ghostly voice of deceased husband Paul whispering not so sweet nothings into her ear. The Freudian aspects of this include this occurring just as a brand new life is around the bend with neighbor Martin. Younger sister/Patty Duke figure Janet is the primary catalyst for this marriage of convenience.
Worlds collide when Christine meets titular psychic Alexis while using a dark beach as a shortcut to a rendez-vous with Marin. This leads to Christine visiting the home of Alexis, who may not be telling the truth and may psych her out in the end. Impressionable Janet becoming a smitten true believer on joining the action thickens the plot.
Highlights in this building up the maddening tension include a highly symbolic eerie ghostly manifestation in the boudoir of Janet and a creepy seance at Chez Alexis. We also learn the depths to which a low-down creep will sink to get inside information and to torment a victim.
The real twist comes roughly mid-way; a PERFECTLY filmed scene shows both that things are not as they seem and that there is no honor among thieves. We also meet the best cast actor in this well-chosen ensemble.
The rest of "X" further enhances the Scooby noir vibe of this lost classic, complete with an unmasking of the villain. The best part of this is that the bad guy would have gotten away with it if not for that meddling kid.
The aforementioned documentary, "Mysteries Exposed: Inside the Cinematic World of Spirtualism," puts "X" in wonderful perspective. One talking head discusses the 19th-century origins of the scammers who literally earn fame and fortune convincing their victims that they can put those suckers in contact with their dearly departed. The "Spiritualism" expert also reveals the tricks of the trade that show that the "X" filmmakers get it right.
The other talking head is a film historian who offers an embarrassment of riches in terms of his insights and film clips as to movie depictions of close encounters with spirits. Showing how "X" earns high marks in that regard provides a fascinating perspective.
Detective completes this treasury with a written essay on the career of leading man Turhan Bey and behind-the-scenes gossip of "X."
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