Star of Midnight

Star of Midnight is a sparkling gem from Hollywood's Golden Age, a 1935 mystery-comedy brimming with wit, glamour, and a dash of romance, masterfully directed by Stephen Roberts. The film features the brilliant performances of William Powell, Ginger Rogers, and Paul Kelly, brought together in an engaging storyline that keeps you guessing and laughing in equal measure.

In this film, William Powell slips into the confident skin of a high society lawyer and amateur detective named Clay 'Dal' Dalzell. Powell, known for his charm and wit in roles such as in The Thin Man series, delivers yet another engaging performance. Dal leads a luxurious lifestyle, replete with a spacious Manhattan penthouse, an irrepressible valet, and an endless stream of cocktails. His character comes alive with witty dialogues, a sharp intellect, and a nonchalant, suave demeanor. Yet, beneath his seemingly nonchalant façade lies a keen sense of justice, bleaching through the black-and-white frames of the film, driving him to solve the mystery at the core of the movie.

Ginger Rogers, on the other hand, takes on the role of Donna Mantin, a spirited socialite and the love interest of Dal. The film exploits Rogers's charisma and comedic ability to the fullest, delivering light-hearted humor, feisty exchanges, and pleasant on-screen chemistry with Powell. Known as one of the most iconic dancers of her time, Rogers also gets a chance to showcase her dance skills.

Paul Kelly completes the main trio as Tommy Tennant, an old friend of Dal's. Kelly brings a certain dramatic weight to the movie, his character tangled within the thick web of the film's mystery. The actor capably treads a path between friendship and suspicion, giving audiences an enigmatic figure that keeps them on their toes.

The narrative of Star of Midnight is complex and layered, having been penned by the gifted screenwriter Howard Emmett Rogers. It whisks audiences away into the heart of a rich man's playground of New York during the Great Depression. Peppered with social gatherings, theater shows, and nightclub visits, the film offers an enticing view into the era, complete with glorious Art-Deco sceneries and period costumes. Amid this glittering backdrop, Dal is thrust into a labyrinthine mystery that encapsulates a disappearing actress, a masked entertainer, and a murder. As he unravels the threads, the audience is drawn into the plot's elusive core, waiting with bated breath for the reveal.

Star of Midnight beautifully strikes a balance between being a light-hearted romantic comedy and a suspenseful mystery. It has its fair share of dramatic exchanges and tense moments juxtaposed with light, bantering conversations that crackle with wit and humor. The dialogue is sharp, the pace steady yet gripping, and the plot twists fascinating, seamlessly integrating moments of humor and suspense.

The direction by Stephen Roberts deserves a special mention too. Roberts skillfully navigates the complex plot, ensuring the narrative flows smoothly and every character gets their share of the spotlight. His tight control over the suspense elements keeps the audience guessing until the very end.

In addition to Powell, Rogers, and Kelly, the film also profits from a strong supporting cast. Their individual performances add depth to the story, and their interactions with the main characters provide an element of authenticity to the narrative.

The film's cinematography, set designs, and costumes work in harmony to bring to life the glamour and grandeur of the era. The strain of jazz playing in the background further enhances the movie atmosphere, embedding it firmly in the time it was set.

To sum it up, Star of Midnight, with its stellar cast, engaging plot, and quality production, serves as an enchanting blend of mystery and humor. The film packs in all the elements that make for a classic pre-war Hollywood entertainment - delightful banter, glamorous settings, an absorbing mystery, and characters that are not only charming but also smartly crafted. This James Hawks production is very much a hidden gem waiting for modern audiences to discover its charm. It's the kind of film that leaves you with a smile on your face, reminding you of the glittering allure of cinema's yesteryears.