The Missing Guest

The Missing Guest is a 1938 American Universal Studios mystery film, expertly incorporating elements of thriller and comedy into its plot. The story revolves around a murder case taking place in a reportedly "haunted house" and the events that transpire after an ambitious young reporter gets involved. The film stars Paul Kelly, Constance Moore, and William Lundigan, who bring depth to the characters they play and use their artistry to masterfully create suspense, intrigue, and comedic relief.

The movie opens with a murder occurring in the so-called haunted Radcliffe Mansion sixteen years ago during a stormy night. The setting is portrayed ominously through atmospheric visuals and sound editing that plays to the eeriness of the dark and stormy night. This brands the Radcliffe Mansion as a haunted house in the locale, where the owner was literally scared to death.

Paul Kelly plays the role of Steve Huston, a fearless journalist looking to prove himself. Steve's determination to get an exclusive story leads him to the Radcliffe Mansion on another stormy night. Interestingly, coinciding with Steve's arrival, mysterious happenings begin to transpire which catalyze the movie's thrilling and comedic twist and turns.

Constance Moore portrays Jane, who is the sister of the country prosecutor George, played by William Lundigan. Jane's character contrasts against the general gloom and apprehension of the mansion. She fights the house's notoriously creepy reputation with wit and a certain charm that keeps the audience captivated.

While the storm rages on outside, within the mansion walls, the guests are growing more and more terrified. Steve, ever the determined reporter, doesn't let the eerie atmosphere of the mansion and its history deter him. Instead, his skepticism leads him to dig deeper into the horrifying supernatural events, causing him to frequently cross paths with Jane. Their interaction provides a comic relief that lightens the overall grim ambiance, without taking away from the underlying tension.

Kelly and Moore demonstrate commendable chemistry, their verbal spurs, and undeniable attraction add to the entertainment value of The Missing Guest. George is a typical small-town prosecutor, quite friendly but cautiously skeptic of Steve and his antics. Lundigan efficiently playing the role, contributes to the diverse set of interesting characters.

The narrative masterfully intertwines comedic elements with the thrilling plot, making it a unique movie for its time that offers more than just suspense. The viewers are compelled to be on the edge of their seats, trying to solve the mystery alongside Steve Huston, while occasionally finding themselves laughing along with the antics of the characters.

The plot carefully incorporates a mix of twists and turns, making sure to keep viewers guessing. With characters disappearing and reappearing, screams in the dark, and clock-towers chiming ominously, one can't help but get engrossed in the narrative. Director John Rawlins succeeds in using the rich tapestry of mystery, suspense, and comedy to keep the audience thoroughly engaged.

The cinematography choice and the excellent use of lighting add to set the movie's spooky ambient. In contrast, the indoor scenes with Steve and others are often bright and energetic, further highlighting the sharp contrast between the mansion's eerie reputation and the fascinating enigma the guests are entangled in.

In conclusion, The Missing Guest presents itself as both a mystery to be solved and a laughing stock worth the ride. A haunted house coupled with a murder case is bound to make the audience curious. Still, alongside, Steve Huston's skepticism and relentless pursuit, Jane's wit and charm, and the comic elements judiciously spread throughout the plot transform it into an entertainingly unique motion picture. This movie is a must-watch for individuals who appreciate classic black-and-white movies full of suspense, humor, and heart. It persists to be a hidden gem from the era making for a thrilling and amusing watch.