Mystery Movie Series of 1940s Hollywood
by Ron Backer
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Book Presentation:
Many of the 20th century's most celebrated fictional sleuths appeared in Hollywood movie mystery series of the forties. This volume focuses on 19 series (146 films): The Saint, The Lone Wolf, Sherlock Holmes, The Shadow, Nick Carter, Michael Shayne, Ellery Queen, Boston Blackie, The Falcon, Mr. District Attorney, Wally Benton, Crime Doctor, The Whistler, Inner Sanctum, Dick Tracy, Philip Marlowe, Jack Packard and Doc Long, Steve Wilson and Lorelei Kilbourne and John J. Malone. For each series, there is an overview of the source material, the individual films, and the performers who acted in them. An overall review of each film is included, with a critique of the film's quality and the cohesiveness of its plot. For movies based on written works, a comparison between the film and its literary original is offered.
About the Author:
Ron Backer is an attorney who has previously written for law reviews and other legal publications. An avid fan of mystery and classic horror films, he lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Press Reviews:
"commendable detail"—Mystery Scene; "vintage black and white photos accompany discussions of themes, side plots, and more and contribute to a top pick for any in-depth film collection"—Midwest Book Review; "good book…fun read"—Little Shoppe of Horrors; "most entertaining and informative…lively and entertaining read bolstered by impressive research and a pleasing presentation complete with numerous photographs. It’s a book many fans of the series genre have been looking forward to for years."—Scarlet.
See the publisher website: McFarland & Co
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