Blu ray review: The Crime of the Century (1933)

Kino Lorber continues its release of Paramount pre-code classics with this outstanding drama about a mentalist (Jean Hersholt) who confesses to a murder that hasn’t yet happened. Stuart Erwin shines during one of the stronger periods of his long career as reporter who naturally investigates by staying one jump ahead of the detectives.

The Crime of the Century is directed by William Beaudine, a highly skilled craftsman whose work has been ridiculously maligned due to a snarky book in the 70s that dismissed him as a “one-shot” director who hurried through his projects and moved on. As the author of a book discussing Beaudine's films, I know this isn’t true. Beaudine’s direction of this particular production is a masterful succession of shots that highlights each scene effectively and helps us better appreciate the narrative and the well-drawn characters.

Billed as a “whodunit,” a fun movie term for this type of fast-paced mystery, The Crime of the Century is suspenseful, amusing, and challenging. Beaudine was very good at combining themes and tones and crossing genres within the same movie. There is a comic element, with wry dialog, along with the consistent suspense that permeates the story.

Based on Walter Maria Espe’s play The Grootman Case, the film’s cast also includes Frances Dee and Wynne Gibson who turn in excellent performances, and amusing appearances by the likes of Fred Kelsey, Marion Byron, and Isabel Jewell in small roles.

Kino Lorber’s blu ray features a commentary track by Lee Gambin and Elissa Rose. Lee typically offers a wealth of fascinating information about the movie’s background, its influence on other films, and the different actors. He also champions William Beaudine’s work, joining me in the argument against how poorly Beaudine has been represented. Elissa is a costume historian, so her discussion of the period fashions is especially interesting. The 30s had a really striking look and the information Elissa offers us about that look and style gives us greater insight and appreciation for the sharp suits, the hats, and the women’s fashions that are so unique to the era.

One of the best pre-code films to be released from Kino Lorber, The Crime of the Century is highly recommended and can be purchased at this link: CRIME