Kate Plus Ten

The 1938 movie, Kate Plus Ten, is an intriguing blend of British crime mystery, screwball comedy, and action-adventure that keeps the audience glued to their screens. This classic film is brimming with a distinctive characteristic that projects an interesting cinematic epoch of the time. Featuring renowned artist Jack Hulbert in the lead role and the charming Genevieve Tobin supporting him, along with the equally credible Noel Madison, the movie offers an optimal blend of acting prowess and compelling narrative.

At the foundation of the plot is Kate (played by Genevieve Tobin), a competent and confident woman who orchestrates a gold heist from a moving train. As the only woman in a team of ten men hence the name Kate Plus Ten, she is a charismatic character who deftly navigates through this action thriller, often outsmarting her male counterparts and changing common stereotypes about women of that era.

Jack Hulbert portrays the role of Jack, an insurance agent, with a perfect dose of stamina and style. Jack is sent on a mission to discover the mind behind the masterful heist of a million pounds worth of gold intended for a bullion firm in France. His character's journey provides a healthy dose of comedy to balance the suspense and tension that accompanies the storyline. Hulbert's witty one-liners, physical humour, and distinctive charm make his character engaging and memorable.

The dynamic between the charming yet feisty Kate and the persistent and resourceful insurance agent Jack builds a complex yet entertaining relationship that forms the core of the story's intrigue. As Jack tries to investigate the heist, he encounters various situations that keep the audience engaged and guessing.

Complementing the leading roles is the notorious gangster, Reed (Noel Madison). His character adds a dash of danger and suspense, making the plot more gripping and solid. The way in which Jack has to go undercover, dodge bullets and navigate the underworld of crime, progressively builds up the movie's tension, creating an edge-of-the-seat experience for viewers.

The script, penned by Jack Hulbert himself, apart from his wife, fellow comic actor Cicely Courtneidge, and a number of other collaborators, is filled with clever twists and turns. It is light-hearted despite the plot's intensity, offering a unique perspective on the crime genre and reflecting a distinct British style of storytelling.

The direction by Reginald Purdell and Thornton Freeland does justice to the movie's genre, keeping the various twists and turns grounded, while building suspense and hilarity expertly. The narrative threads of humour, suspense, action, and romantic tension are seamlessly woven together, maintaining a steady pace and tone throughout the film.

The cinematography by Bernard Knowles and Arthur Crabtree reflects the art deco styles and dark and light contrast of the late 1930s, contributing greatly to the movie's atmosphere and aesthetic. The scenes between Tobin and Hulbert are shot beautifully, highlighting the romantic undercurrent amidst the thrill of the chase.

Kate Plus Ten is also notable for its sound design. The film was released in an era when 'talkies' were still relatively new, and it capitalises on this technological advancement with great dialogue delivery, dramatic sound cues, and an appealing soundtrack.

In conclusion, the movie Kate Plus Ten stands rock solid on the shoulders of its captivating narrative, great character development, a robust mix of genres and brilliant performances. It takes the audience into the world of high-stakes crime, fast-paced chases, sparkling wit, and unexpected romances. Indeed, whether it be action enthusiasts, fans of classic mysteries, or lovers of screwball comedies, Kate Plus Ten has something to offer everyone. The combination of the charming leads, their interesting predicaments, and the enduringly appealing 30s aesthetic makes this movie a classic worth watching more than eight decades later.