Candles at Nine

Candles at Nine is a gripping 1944 mystery film that manages to ingeniously weave suspense, humour, and drama into a well-crafted narrative. Directed by John Harlow and featuring the likes of Eliot Makeham, Beatrix Lehmann, and John Salew, this wartime British production is highly reminiscent of the classic thriller style of the era, yet it offers a unique approach that sets it apart from its contemporities.

At the center of the story is the heart-warming and versatile actor, Eliot Makeham. Known for his chameleon-like abilities to adapt to any role, Makeham puts on an impressive show in Candles at Nine. His portrayal of an everyman thrust into unexpected circumstances is not only believable but also allows the audience to experience the full range of his tremendous acting prowess. Always the dependable hand, Makeham shows why he was one of the most respected actors of his time.

Beatrix Lehmann's performance adds depth and intrigue to the beautiful black and white celluloid canvas. Known for her nuanced portrayal of complex characters, Lehmann delivers a performance that is equal parts measured and electrifying. Her character is a bundle of contrasts, giving Lehmann ample room to showcase her exquisite skills. She finds herself embroiled in a strange circumstance that is almost ineffable – her performance, however, is resolutely tangible and tremendous.

John Salew, another acting heavyweight of the time, adds further momentum to this whirling, ever-moving plot. The ease with which Salew moulds himself into the narrative is praiseworthy. His character, while seemingly in the background, plays a crucial role in unfolding the events of the story. Salew's marvelously calibrated performance sets off the perfect counterpoints with other characters that keep the audience hooked to the screen.

The thespians' performances are bolstered by a storyline rife with rich character development and unexpected turns of event. The plot of Candles at Nine is peppered with light-hearted moments, and paradoxically tinged with an atmosphere of suspenseful uncertainty that tugs at your nerves throughout the movie.

The movie threads a nonlinear narrative that revolves around the will of a rich dowager, a mysterious disappearance, and humorous goof-ups leading to a heady blend of misdirection. It offers a perfect dose of mystery and enjoyable levity, making it a must-watch for fans of old-school mysteries and whodunnits.

The characters find themselves in a foreboding mansion brimming with secrets waiting to be unraveled. The light shining through the narrow windows of the mansion and the flickering of the candles at nine underscore the engrossing ambience. The insightful direction of John Harlow adds an extra layer of complexity to the overall script. His expertise shines through, absorbing the audience tonally and visually into the thrilling narrative.

Another element that adds to the allure is the film's exquisite cinematography. From skillfully angled shots that heighten the tension of a scene to the carefully calibrated lighting that always seems to illuminate just enough, the film's visual aesthetics are a treat.

The film's music is another notable aspect, with a well-curated soundtrack that maintains the suspense while complementing the unfolding scenarios. The pacing remains excellent throughout the movie, with not a single scene feeling unnecessary or drawn out.

Candles at Nine might not immediately come to mind when thinking of the 1940s mystery genre, but it offers some exquisite cinematic experiences that make it a hidden gem of the time. Its mix of well-executed humor, suspense, and drama as well as memorable performances from the cast blend together to create a charming, engaging, and unpredictable story that keeps the viewers on their toes while ensuring they always have a smile on their faces.

Candles at Nine ensures that the cinematic journey one embarks upon while watching it is filled with suspense, intrigue, and fun. From the opening sequence to the climactic finale, the movie won't disappoint, making it a must-watch for any fan of classic filmmaking, mystery, or thrillers. So, despite it being a film from over 75 years ago, the timeless narrative style and spellbinding performances that make up Candles at Nine remind us of why it remains relevant in the annals of cinematic history.