Bulldog Drummond in Africa

In 1938, the fourth movie in the Bulldog Drummond series was released, titled Bulldog Drummond in Africa. The movie stars John Howard as the titular character, Bulldog Drummond, with Heather Angel as his fiancée, Phyllis Clavering, and H.B. Warner as his friend and ally, Colonel Nielson.

The movie opens with Bulldog and Phyllis on holiday in Africa, enjoying a safari. However, their idyllic vacation is cut short when Colonel Nielson comes to them with a plea for help. A group of diamond smugglers has been causing trouble in a nearby village, and Nielson needs Bulldog's help to put a stop to them.

Bulldog, ever the gentleman adventurer, agrees to help and sets out to investigate. He quickly discovers that the diamond smugglers are being led by none other than his arch-nemesis, Carl Peterson (played by Reginald Denny). Bulldog and his companions set out on a mission to stop Peterson and his cronies from causing any more trouble.

The movie features all the hallmarks of a classic Bulldog Drummond adventure – daring feats of bravery, narrow escapes, and plot twists aplenty. The action takes place against a backdrop of stunning African scenery, with the film making ample use of on-location footage to give audiences a taste of the African wilderness.

One of the most memorable scenes in the movie sees Bulldog, Phyllis and Nielson navigating a treacherous river in a rickety old boat, pursued by Peterson and his henchmen in a motorboat. The tension is palpable as the heroes narrowly avoid danger at every turn, culminating in a thrilling showdown between Bulldog and Peterson.

Despite the thrills and spills, the movie also has a strong romantic subplot, with Bulldog and Phyllis' relationship at the forefront. The chemistry between Howard and Angel is palpable, and their scenes together are sweet and endearing.

One notable aspect of the movie is the performance of H.B. Warner as Colonel Nielson. Warner brings a gravitas and dignity to the role, which helps to elevate the movie above the standard adventure flick. His scenes with Howard are a highlight, with the two actors displaying a warm camaraderie that feels genuine.

Bulldog Drummond in Africa is a solid entry in the Bulldog Drummond series, offering up plenty of action, romance, and suspense. The movie benefits from a strong cast, gorgeous scenery, and a well-crafted script that keeps audiences engaged throughout. While it may not be a classic of the genre, it is certainly a fun and entertaining adventure that will leave viewers satisfied.