Johnny's Silver Screen

"Dressed to Kill" is a 1946 mystery film starring Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes and Nigel Bruce as Dr. Watson. Here's a summary of the plot: The film begins with a series of mysterious murders in London, where individuals are killed for seemingly trivial reasons, such as possessing valuable music boxes. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson are called in to investigate the case. Holmes quickly deduces that the music boxes are the key to unraveling the mystery and sets out to track down the perpetrator. Along the way, Holmes and Watson encounter a diverse cast of characters, including a group of music box collectors and a criminal mastermind known as "The Spider." As Holmes delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of deceit, betrayal, and greed. He follows a trail of clues that leads him to a pawn shop run by a man named Sandeford (played by Frederick Worlock), who is involved in the illegal trafficking of valuable music boxes. Holmes and Watson engage in a thrilling game of cat and mouse with "The Spider" and his accomplices as they race against time to prevent further murders and bring the culprit to justice. In the climax of the film, Holmes confronts "The Spider" in a dramatic showdown, where the true identity of the murderer is revealed and justice is served. "Dressed to Kill" is a classic Sherlock Holmes mystery filled with intrigue, suspense, and clever deductions. Basil Rathbone delivers a captivating performance as the legendary detective, while Nigel Bruce provides comic relief as his faithful companion, Dr. Watson. It remains a beloved entry in the series of Sherlock Holmes films produced by Universal Pictures in the 1940s.

"The Time of Your Life" is a 1948 drama film directed by H.C. Potter, based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name by William Saroyan. Here's a summary of the plot: The film is set in a waterfront dive bar in San Francisco during the early 1940s. The bar, owned by Nick, (played by William Bendix) is a haven for a colorful cast of characters who frequent it. The central character is Joe (played by James Cagney), a carefree and philosophical man who spends his days observing the world around him and interacting with the patrons of the bar. Joe is content to simply exist in the moment, offering wisdom and guidance to those who seek it. As the film unfolds, we are introduced to a variety of characters who frequent the bar, including Tom (played by William Bendix), a lovable oaf who dreams of becoming a boxer; Kitty (played by Jeanne Cagney), a streetwise woman with a heart of gold; and Blick (played by Wayne Morris), a troubled young man with a dark past. The film explores themes of friendship, love, and the search for meaning in life as the characters navigate their way through the challenges and struggles of everyday existence. Despite their differences, they form a tight-knit community bound together by their shared experiences and the camaraderie of the bar. Throughout the film, Joe serves as a source of wisdom and inspiration to his friends, offering them guidance and encouragement as they grapple with their own hopes, dreams, and fears. In the end, "The Time of Your Life" celebrates the importance of living in the present moment and cherishing the connections we make with others along the way. It's a poignant and heartwarming portrayal of the human experience, brought to life by a talented ensemble cast led by James Cagney.

"Mr. Sardonicus" is a 1961 horror film directed by William Castle. Here's a summary of the plot: The film follows the story of Sir Robert Cargrave (played by Ronald Lewis), a British doctor who receives a letter from his former lover, Maude Sardonicus (played by Audrey Dalton), urging him to come to her aid in the remote village of Gorslava, in central Europe. When Sir Robert arrives in Gorslava, he discovers that Maude has married the wealthy and eccentric Baron Sardonicus (played by Guy Rolfe). The Baron is known for his cruel and tyrannical behavior, and the villagers live in fear of him. Sir Robert learns that Maude is being held captive by the Baron, who reveals that Maude's face has been frozen into a grotesque, permanent grin due to a condition known as "sardonicus." The Baron demands that Sir Robert use his medical skills to cure Maude's condition, threatening her with further torture if he refuses. As Sir Robert investigates Maude's condition, he uncovers dark secrets about the Baron's past and the true extent of his cruelty. He also learns of the Baron's obsession with a lottery ticket that he believes will bring him untold riches. Determined to save Maude and put an end to the Baron's reign of terror, Sir Robert hatches a plan to confront the Baron and expose his crimes to the world. With the help of a sympathetic servant named Krull (played by Oskar Homolka), Sir Robert sets out to confront the Baron in a final showdown. The climax of the film sees Sir Robert facing off against the Baron in a chilling and suspenseful confrontation, where the true nature of the Baron's "sardonicus" condition is revealed. "Mr. Sardonicus" is a classic horror film known for its atmospheric setting, eerie atmosphere, and memorable villain. It explores themes of greed, revenge, and the consequences of unchecked ambition, making it a favorite among fans of Gothic horror.

"Of Human Bondage" (1934) follows the life of Philip Carey (played by Leslie Howard), a young man with a clubfoot who aspires to become an artist. Here's a summary of the plot: Philip Carey, a medical student in London, becomes infatuated with Mildred Rogers (played by Bette Davis), a waitress he meets at a tea shop. Despite her callous treatment of him, Philip is drawn to Mildred and becomes deeply infatuated with her. Mildred, however, is indifferent to Philip's affections and often treats him with contempt. She takes advantage of his feelings for her, repeatedly rejecting him while stringing him along. Despite Mildred's mistreatment, Philip continues to pursue her, hoping to win her love. He even supports her financially when she becomes pregnant by another man, only to be rejected once again. As Philip's obsession with Mildred consumes him, he neglects his studies and artistic ambitions, leading to a downward spiral in his life. He eventually realizes the destructive nature of his infatuation but struggles to break free from its grip. Throughout the film, Philip encounters various other women, including the kind and caring Norah Nesbitt (played by Kay Johnson) and the free-spirited Sally Athelny (played by Frances Dee), who offer him love and support. In the end, Philip learns to let go of his obsession with Mildred and finds solace in the friendship and affection of those who genuinely care for him. "Of Human Bondage" is a poignant exploration of unrequited love, obsession, and the search for meaning and fulfillment in life. It features powerful performances from Leslie Howard and Bette Davis and remains a classic of early Hollywood cinema.

"Dick Tracy vs. Cueball" is a 1946 crime thriller film directed by Gordon Douglas, based on the comic strip character Dick Tracy created by Chester Gould. In this installment, detective Dick Tracy, played by Morgan Conway, faces off against the notorious criminal known as Cueball, played by Dick Wessel. The plot follows Tracy as he investigates a series of crimes orchestrated by Cueball, a ruthless and cunning villain with a distinctive bald head. Cueball and his gang of henchmen are responsible for a string of robberies, murders, and other criminal activities that threaten the safety of the city. As Tracy delves deeper into the case, he encounters various obstacles and dangers, including traps set by Cueball and his attempts to evade capture. With the help of his loyal partner, Pat Patton, and his girlfriend, Tess Trueheart, Tracy pursues Cueball and his gang with determination and cunning. The film builds to an action-packed climax as Tracy and Cueball engage in a thrilling showdown, leading to a dramatic and satisfying resolution. Along the way, Tracy must use all of his detective skills, ingenuity, and bravery to outsmart Cueball and bring him to justice. "Dick Tracy vs. Cueball" is a classic crime thriller that captures the essence of the Dick Tracy comic strip, with its colorful characters, fast-paced action, and suspenseful storyline. With its dynamic performances and exciting plot twists, the film remains a beloved entry in the Dick Tracy film series.

"Earth vs. The Flying Saucers" is a classic 1956 science fiction film directed by Fred F. Sears and produced by Charles H. Schneer. The plot revolves around the sudden appearance of alien flying saucers and humanity's struggle to defend Earth against the extraterrestrial invaders. The story begins when Dr. Russell Marvin (played by Hugh Marlowe), a scientist working on a government project related to space travel, and his wife Carol (played by Joan Taylor) witness a series of UFO sightings. These sightings escalate into a full-scale invasion when alien spacecraft begin attacking major cities around the world. Dr. Marvin soon realizes that the aliens intend to conquer Earth and enslave humanity. With the help of his wife Carol and other scientists, Dr. Marvin races against time to develop a defense strategy to combat the alien threat.

"Captain Kidd" is a 1945 adventure film directed by Rowland V. Lee, starring Charles Laughton in the title role as the infamous pirate Captain William Kidd. The plot is loosely based on the real-life exploits of Captain Kidd during the 17th century. The story begins with Captain Kidd being commissioned by the English government to undertake a voyage to the Indian Ocean to capture and plunder enemy ships, particularly those of the French. However, Kidd has his own agenda and secretly plans to betray his employers and keep the treasure for himself. As the voyage progresses, tensions rise among the crew, and suspicions grow about Kidd's true intentions. Among the crew is Adam Mercy, played by Randolph Scott, a sailor who becomes increasingly disillusioned with Kidd's leadership and schemes. As Kidd's treachery is revealed, Adam Mercy finds himself caught in the middle of a deadly game of cat and mouse between the pirate captain and the authorities. Along the way, there are battles at sea, daring escapes, and thrilling adventures as Kidd and his crew navigate the perils of the high seas. In the end, Kidd's reign of piracy comes to a dramatic conclusion as he faces off against his enemies in a final showdown. The film explores themes of greed, betrayal, and redemption against the backdrop of the Golden Age of Piracy. "Captain Kidd" is a swashbuckling adventure film that offers a fictionalized glimpse into the life of one of history's most notorious pirates, portrayed with gusto by Charles Laughton. With its thrilling action sequences, colorful characters, and dramatic storyline, the film remains a classic of the pirate genre.

"Secret Command" is a 1944 war film directed by Edward L. Cahn. The plot revolves around a group of American agents working undercover to sabotage Nazi operations in the United States during World War II. The story centers on Captain Robert Rogers, played by Pat O'Brien, who leads a team of operatives tasked with infiltrating a Nazi spy ring operating in America. Their mission is to gather intelligence, disrupt enemy activities, and prevent the Nazis from carrying out their sinister plans on American soil. As Rogers and his team delve deeper into their undercover work, they face numerous challenges and dangers, including betrayal, deception, and deadly confrontations with Nazi agents. Along the way, they must rely on their wits, courage, and resourcefulness to outsmart the enemy and accomplish their objectives. As the plot unfolds, Rogers and his team uncover a sinister plot orchestrated by a high-ranking Nazi agent, played by J. Edward Bromberg, who is determined to unleash havoc and destruction on American soil. With time running out, Rogers and his team must race against the clock to thwart the enemy's plans and protect their country from harm. "Secret Command" is a gripping war thriller that combines elements of espionage, action, and suspense. With its tense storyline, dynamic characters, and patriotic themes, the film captures the spirit of wartime America and the bravery of those who fought against tyranny and oppression.

"Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome" is a 1947 crime thriller film directed by John Rawlins and starring Morgan Conway as Dick Tracy, and Boris Karloff as the villainous Gruesome. The plot follows detective Dick Tracy as he investigates a series of murders linked to a criminal mastermind named Gruesome. The story begins when Dick Tracy is called in to investigate a string of murders committed with a mysterious new poison. As he delves deeper into the case, Tracy discovers a connection between the murders and a notorious criminal named Gruesome, who has recently escaped from prison. Tracy teams up with his girlfriend, Tess Trueheart, and his trusty sidekick, Pat Patton, to track down Gruesome and bring him to justice. Along the way, they encounter various obstacles and dangers, including Gruesome's henchmen and their deadly schemes. As Tracy closes in on Gruesome, he must use all of his detective skills and resources to outwit the cunning criminal and put an end to his reign of terror. The film builds to an action-packed climax as Tracy confronts Gruesome in a final showdown, leading to a thrilling and satisfying conclusion. "Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome" is a classic crime thriller that combines elements of mystery, suspense, and action, with Boris Karloff delivering a memorable performance as the menacing villain. With its dynamic characters, fast-paced plot, and thrilling detective work, the film remains a beloved entry in the Dick Tracy franchise.

"Great Guy" is a 1936 crime drama film starring James Cagney, directed by John G. Blystone. In this film, Cagney plays the role of Johnny Cave, an honest and determined investigator for the Department of Weights and Measures in New York City. The plot revolves around Johnny's efforts to combat corruption and racketeering in the city, particularly in the food industry. He becomes embroiled in a dangerous investigation when he discovers evidence of illegal tampering with food products, putting him at odds with powerful criminals who will stop at nothing to protect their interests. As Johnny delves deeper into the case, he faces numerous obstacles and threats, including intimidation, bribery, and violence. However, he remains steadfast in his pursuit of justice, determined to expose the criminals and ensure the safety of the city's residents. Along the way, Johnny forms an unlikely alliance with a group of street vendors who have been victimized by the racketeers. Together, they work to gather evidence and build a case against the criminals, risking their lives in the process. In the end, Johnny's perseverance and bravery pay off as he successfully brings the criminals to justice and restores integrity to the Department of Weights and Measures. "Great Guy" is a thrilling and action-packed crime drama that showcases James Cagney's dynamic performance and captures the spirit of 1930s New York City.

After young Robert Graham (Phillips Holmes) commits a murder while drunk and defending his girlfriend, he is prosecuted by ambitious Mark Brady (Walter Huston) and sentenced to 10 years. Six years later, Brady becomes the prison warden and offers the beleaguered Robert a job as his chauffeur. Robert cleans up his act, but, on the eve of his pardon, his cellmate drags him back into the world of violence, and he faces a difficult choice that could return him to prison.

George McAllister (John Carroll), the black sheep of a wealthy family who has squandered his share of the family inheritance, and lives in constant jealousy, hatred and resentment of his half-brother Barry (Robert Paige), who has been supporting him. George gets his girl friend, Carlotta Duval (Vera Ralston), a job as Barry’s nurse with the plan of eventually marrying him. She does, but instead of going ahead with the original plan or getting rid of Barry, inheriting his money and marrying George, she finds that she is really in love with Barry.

Detective Philip Marlowe encounters a variety of characters while checking on why Leslie Murdock stole a rare doubloon from his mother. As Marlowe delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a tangled web of deception, blackmail, and murder. Along the way, he faces danger and threats as he gets closer to unraveling the truth behind the disappearance of the Brasher Doubloon. The film follows Marlowe's relentless pursuit of justice and his efforts to untangle the mysteries surrounding the missing coin. As the plot unfolds, Marlowe navigates through a seedy underworld populated by shady characters and hidden agendas. In classic film noir style, "The Brasher Doubloon" features atmospheric cinematography, moody lighting, and sharp dialogue. George Montgomery's portrayal of Philip Marlowe captures the character's toughness, wit, and moral integrity. Overall, "The Brasher Doubloon" is a gripping and atmospheric detective film that remains a notable entry in the genre, offering fans of Raymond Chandler's work an entertaining and suspenseful adaptation of his novel. Stars: George Montgomery - Nancy Guild - Conrad Janis

"My Man Godfrey" is a 1936 screwball comedy film directed by Gregory La Cava. The plot revolves around the eccentric and wealthy Bullock family and their interactions with Godfrey, a down-on-his-luck butler. The story begins when Irene Bullock, played by Carole Lombard, goes on a scavenger hunt with her high society friends. In her quest to find a "forgotten man" for the hunt, she encounters Godfrey, played by William Powell, who is living at the city dump. Impressed by his wit and demeanor, Irene hires Godfrey as the family butler, much to the surprise of her family. As Godfrey settles into his new role, he quickly becomes an indispensable member of the Bullock household, despite his mysterious past. He navigates the chaos and eccentricities of the family with charm and grace, particularly catching the attention of Irene's sister, Cornelia, played by Gail Patrick, who initially resents him. As the story unfolds, Godfrey's true identity and background are revealed, shedding light on his reasons for living at the dump and his connection to the Bullock family. Along the way, there are misunderstandings, romantic entanglements, and comedic situations that keep the audience entertained. In the end, Godfrey's integrity, kindness, and good humor win over the Bullock family, leading to a heartwarming conclusion. The film is celebrated for its witty dialogue, sharp social commentary, and standout performances, particularly from Carole Lombard and William Powell. "My Man Godfrey" is a timeless classic of the screwball comedy genre, beloved for its humor, charm, and delightful portrayal of class dynamics in 1930s America.

"Meet John Doe" is a 1941 drama film directed by Frank Capra, starring Gary Cooper and Barbara Stanwyck. The story begins when Ann Mitchell (played by Barbara Stanwyck), a newspaper columnist who's about to lose her job, decides to write a fictional letter from a "John Doe" who plans to commit suicide on Christmas Eve due to the state of the world. The letter resonates with readers, and Ann's boss, D.B. Norton (played by Edward Arnold), seizes the opportunity to boost circulation by concocting a plan to turn John Doe into a symbol of hope. Ann hires a down-and-out former baseball player, Long John Willoughby (played by Gary Cooper), to pose as John Doe. Together, they create a persona for John Doe as a man who represents the common people and their struggles. The "John Doe" movement gains momentum, attracting widespread public support and inspiring community action. However, as John Doe becomes a national figure, he begins to lose sight of his original principles and falls under the manipulative influence of D.B. Norton, who has political ambitions. As the situation spirals out of control, Ann realizes the harm that has been done and tries to stop the unfolding disaster. She confronts D.B. Norton and attempts to expose his scheme to the public. In the climax of the film, John Doe is manipulated into delivering a speech written by Norton that promotes a message of division and hatred. However, at the last moment, John Doe rejects the speech and delivers a heartfelt plea for unity and kindness. The film ends on a hopeful note, with John Doe's message of goodwill inspiring people to come together and work towards a better society. "Meet John Doe" is a powerful exploration of the importance of community, integrity, and standing up against corruption. It remains a classic example of Frank Capra's ability to blend social commentary with heartwarming storytelling.

"Pot O' Gold" is a 1941 musical comedy film directed by George Marshall and starring James Stewart and Paulette Goddard. Here's a summary of the plot: The story revolves around Jimmy Haskell (played by James Stewart), a young man who dreams of becoming a successful musician. However, he faces opposition from his wealthy and disapproving uncle, C.J. Haskell (played by Charles Winninger), who wants him to join the family business. Jimmy's luck changes when he meets Molly McCorkle (played by Paulette Goddard), a spirited young woman who works at her father's music store. Molly believes in Jimmy's talent and encourages him to pursue his passion for music. As Jimmy and Molly's friendship blossoms into romance, they face various obstacles, including financial struggles and interference from Jimmy's uncle. Despite the challenges, they remain determined to follow their dreams and find success. The plot takes a comedic turn when Jimmy and Molly enter a radio contest with the hope of winning a cash prize. Their participation in the contest leads to a series of misadventures and misunderstandings, culminating in a chaotic and entertaining climax. Throughout the film, there are musical performances featuring James Stewart showcasing his musical talents on the harmonica, along with Paulette Goddard's singing and dancing. In the end, Jimmy and Molly's perseverance pays off, and they achieve their dreams with the support of each other and their friends. "Pot o' Gold" is a heartwarming and light-hearted musical comedy that celebrates the power of love, friendship, and following one's passions.

"The Red House" is a 1947 psychological thriller film directed by Delmer Daves, based on the novel of the same name by George Agnew Chamberlain. Here's a summary of the plot: The story centers around Pete Morgan (Edward G. Robinson) and his sister Ellen (Judith Anderson), two reclusive farmers who live with their adopted daughter, Meg (Allene Roberts), on a secluded farm in the countryside. Pete is protective of Meg and has kept her sheltered from the outside world. One day, Meg becomes curious about a mysterious red house located deep in the nearby woods. Pete warns her to stay away from the red house and refuses to discuss its significance. Despite his warnings, Meg's curiosity leads her to investigate further with the help of Nath Storm (played by Lon McCallister), a local boy who harbors romantic feelings for her. As Meg delves deeper into the secrets of the red house, she uncovers a dark and disturbing history involving her own past. She learns that her biological parents died under mysterious circumstances near the red house, and that Pete has been concealing the truth from her. Tensions escalate as Meg confronts Pete about her past and demands answers. Pete's behavior becomes increasingly erratic and paranoid as he tries to maintain control over Meg and keep her from discovering the truth about her origins. The plot twists and turns as secrets are revealed, and Meg's life is put in danger as she uncovers the dark secrets surrounding the red house and her own identity. In the climax of the film, the truth about Meg's past is finally revealed, leading to a dramatic and suspenseful confrontation that changes the lives of all involved. "The Red House" is a gripping and atmospheric thriller that explores themes of family secrets, betrayal, and the consequences of obsession. It features strong performances from its cast and remains a classic of the psychological thriller genre.

"At War with the Army" is a 1950 comedy film starring Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis in their first feature film. Directed by Hal Walker. The film is set during World War II and follows the misadventures of two friends, Alvin Korwin (played by Jerry Lewis) and Sgt. Vic Puccinelli (played by Dean Martin), stationed at a military base. The plot revolves around Alvin and Vic's antics as they navigate the challenges of army life. Alvin, a bumbling private, constantly finds himself in absurd and comical situations, much to the frustration of his superiors. Meanwhile, Vic, a smooth-talking sergeant, tries to help Alvin while also dealing with his own romantic entanglements. Throughout the film, Alvin and Vic get into various escapades, including mistaken identities, romantic misunderstandings, and attempts to outsmart their strict commanding officer, Major Green (played by Paul Stevens). Their antics often lead to chaos and hilarity, much to the amusement of their fellow soldiers. As the story unfolds, Alvin and Vic find themselves caught up in a series of humorous predicaments, from staging a musical revue to trying to impress their romantic interests. Despite their many mishaps, the two friends remain determined to prove themselves and overcome the challenges they face. In the end, Alvin and Vic's loyalty and friendship are put to the test when they must rise to the occasion to save the day in a moment of crisis. Through their courage and determination, they earn the respect of their comrades and emerge as unlikely heroes. JOHNNY'S SILVER SCREEN