Mystery Liner (1934) A tense maritime thriller where espionage, murder, and scientific innovation collide aboard an experimental ocean liner. Director: William Nigh Screenplay by: Wellyn Totman Based on: "The Ghost of John Holling" (1924 short story) by Edgar Wallace Produced by: Paul Malvern Starring: Noah Beery as Capt. John Holling Astrid Allwyn as Lila Kane Edwin Maxwell as Major Pope Gustav von Seyffertitz as Inspector Von Kessling Ralph Lewis as Prof. Grimson Cornelius Keefe as First Officer Cliff Rogers Zeffie Tilbury as Granny Plimpton Boothe Howard as Capt. Downey Howard C. Hickman as Dr. Howard Gabby Hayes as Joe, the watchman George Cleveland as Simms the Steward Production Company: Monogram Pictures Distributed by: Monogram Pictures Release Date: March 15, 1934 Runtime: Approximately 62 minutes Country: United States Language: English Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Science Fiction ------------------------------------------------------------ Synopsis: - Captain John Holling is relieved of duty after suffering a nervous breakdown, leaving his ship in the hands of Captain Downey. - The liner is set to be used for an experiment in remote control, designed by Professor Grimson, allowing it to be operated from a land-based laboratory. - As Grimson demonstrates the system, rival agents secretly listen in, hoping to steal the technology for their own purposes. - Shortly after the demonstration, Grimson is attacked and fatally injured, throwing the ship into chaos. - Major Pope boards the vessel to investigate, but as the voyage continues, it becomes clear that enemy spies are among the passengers. - With sabotage, deception, and murder unfolding at sea, the crew must uncover the truth before the ship falls into the wrong hands. ------------------------------------------------------------ Key Themes & Highlights: - Espionage and Sabotage: The film explores the dangers of technological advancements falling into the wrong hands. - Maritime Suspense: The confined setting of an ocean liner heightens the tension and mystery. - Early Science Fiction Elements: The concept of remote-controlled ships was ahead of its time, adding a futuristic touch. - Classic Hollywood Thriller: A blend of mystery, intrigue, and action keeps the story engaging. - Public Domain Legacy: *Mystery Liner* remains accessible through archives and digital platforms, preserving its historical significance. ------------------------------------------------------------ Trivia: - Edgar Wallace’s Story Adaptation: The film is based on Wallace’s short story *The Ghost of John Holling*, originally published in *The Saturday Evening Post*. - Venice Film Festival Recognition: The film was featured at the 1934 International Exhibition of Cinematographic Art in Venice, Italy. - Public Domain Accessibility: The film has entered the public domain, making it widely available for viewing and restoration efforts. - Cinematographer’s Legacy: Archie Stout, who shot the film, later won an Oscar for *The Quiet Man* (1952). - Influence on Later Maritime Thrillers: The themes of espionage and sabotage at sea have been echoed in many films since its release. ------------------------------------------------------------ Hashtags: #MysteryLiner1934 #ClassicHollywood #EdgarWallace #PublicDomainFilm #GoldenAgeCinema #MaritimeThriller #EspionageMystery #ScienceFictionClassic #MonogramPictures #OceanLinerSuspense