Dangerous Masquerade

Robert Newton was an up and coming actor when this obscure "B" movie came out in 1939. He is the only reason to glance upon this rather confusing and contrived production. Apparently, the story has something to do with Newton faking his own death after failing to succeed as a writer. He gives a more restrained performance and that works. It all becomes too difficult to follow but the climax is quite effective.

Overwhelmed by debt, author Robert Newton is about to do away with himself when he comes across a corpse, apparently killed by a falling tree. Deciding to vanish, he switches clothes and possessions with the dead man and heads off to Pimlico. However a coroner's inquest demonstrates the dead man was actually murdered. The police pursue Newton, thinking him his own murderer, as do the actual murders. It's an interesting situation for Harold French's second movie, but it quickly develops into a run-of-the-mill thriller. A good supporting cast, including Peter Gawthorne -- speaking in a posh voice for a change -- Betty Lynne, and John Warwick contribute nicely, although the scene in which dozens of policemen, including one on a horse, comb Hyde Park in search of Newton is more bizarre than thrilling.

Robert Newton was one of the finest actors of his generation.He gave some wonderfully restrained performances even though he is best remembered for his portrayal of long john silver.It is truly a tragedy that he drank himself into an early graves.His output is rather varied as it does depend on the director.Here Harold French does sometimes let Newton off the leash with unfortunate results.the scene in the coroners court is one instance.After all he could hardly have looked less obtrusive had he tried.The story is alas riddled with inconsistencies and is very muddled and poorly handled.If you are a fan of Newton you will enjoy this film otherwise you may find it slightly silly.