Name: Seven Keys to Baldpate (1929) Director: Reginald Barker Studio: Pathé Exchange Starring: Richard Dix, Frances Dade, Warner Oland, Barton MacLane, and Stuart Erwin Release Date: September 15, 1929 Runtime: 79 minutes Format: Black and White, Sound-on-film (Part-talkie with synchronized music and dialogue) Country: United States Language: English Genres: | Mystery | Comedy | Thriller | --- Summary: Seven Keys to Baldpate follows wealthy novelist William Magee, who bets that he can write a novel in just 24 hours while staying alone at the remote Baldpate Inn. However, his solitude is quickly interrupted as a series of mysterious visitors arrive, each claiming keys to the inn and hiding ulterior motives. Amid confusion, deception, and comic mishaps, Magee must navigate a night of intrigue, romance, and unexpected twists to complete his story—and survive the chaos surrounding him. --- Background: Adapted from the popular 1913 play by George M. Cohan and previously made into several silent films, this 1929 version of *Seven Keys to Baldpate* was produced by Pathé Exchange during Hollywood’s transition to sound. Directed by Reginald Barker, the film blends mystery, comedy, and thriller elements, with sound sequences used to enhance the dramatic and humorous moments. Richard Dix, a leading actor of the era, stars in one of his early sound films, showcasing his charm and timing in both suspenseful and comedic scenes. --- Trivia: * This 1929 version is a part-talkie, featuring a mix of silent sequences with synchronized music and dialogue. * Richard Dix reprised a role he had previously played in earlier silent adaptations of the story. * Warner Oland, later famous as Charlie Chan, appears as one of the eccentric guests at Baldpate Inn. * The play’s multiple adaptations, including silent and sound films, highlight its enduring popularity in early 20th-century entertainment. * The film was shot largely on studio sets designed to replicate the remote and mysterious Baldpate Inn. * Audiences enjoyed the clever blend of mystery, romance, and comedy, making it a memorable example of early sound-era genre experimentation. --- Hashtags: #SevenKeysToBaldpate1929 #RichardDix #ReginaldBarker #EarlyTalkie #MysteryComedy #PathéExchange #PreCodeHollywood #ClassicCinema #OldHollywood #FilmHistory