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Date Posted: 23:58:37 05/01/09 Fri
Author: Tim
Subject: Secret of the Chateau (1934)

Rare books, theft and murder are among the principal elements of this seldom seen Universal mystery-thriller. The dialogue is excellent, with liberal dashes of humor and sarcasm throughout the proceedings. The inscrutable Inspector Marotte (Ferdinand Gottschalk) is in pursuit of an elusive and enigmatic old foe named Prahec. The better part of the film takes place in the titular Chateau filled with likely suspects, including the lovely Julie Verlaine (played by the lovely Claire Dodd). Other participants include the witty blonde Didi (Alice White), the dandyish Armand (George E. Stone) and the butler Martin, played by Osgood Perkins, father of actor Anthony Perkins.

Books and their value are one of the focal points of the plot, specifically a priceless Gutenberg Bible. The tale opens at a book auction, and the final resolution plays out in the confines of the Chateau library. Various notable authors and their books are mentioned along the way, including Voltaire and Edgar Allan Poe.

Some memorable dialogue samples:

"It's the hinge that squeaks that gets the oil."

"I can't understand why anybody would want to steal a book when you can go the library and borrow them."

"A good appetite is the sign of a clear conscience."

Overall an enjoyable Universal effort, well worth checking out if you have the opportunity. But beware when the old tower bell rings at night.

Tim

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Replies:

[> Re: Secret of the Chateau (1934) -- Rick, 02:50:48 05/02/09 Sat [1]

Thanks, Tim. Excellent review.






Rick

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