Bulldog Jack

Bulldog Jack is a 1935 British comedy film directed by Walter Forde and stars Jack Hulbert, Fay Wray, and Ralph Richardson. The film follows the story of Jack Pennington (Hulbert), a former British soldier, who is now a detective. He is hired by the wealthy businessman, Sir James Quentin (Richardson), to investigate the disappearance of his daughter, Joan Quentin (Wray). As Jack dives deeper into the case, he discovers Joan was kidnapped because someone wanted to get their hands on a valuable painting, which is in Sir James Quentin's possession.

The film opens with Jack having a date with his girlfriend, Doris (Gina Malo). During their date, Jack is called upon by Sir James Quentin to investigate his daughter's disappearance. Jack accepts the assignment and arrives at the Quentin's estate where he meets the rest of the family, including Sir James' wife (Geraldine Fitzgerald) and son (Arthur Margetson).

Jack quickly discovers that Joan has been kidnapped by a group of criminals who want to get their hands on a valuable painting owned by Sir James Quentin. The painting is believed to be in the estate, but the kidnappers have not been able to locate it. Jack's investigation leads him to suspect that one of the family members is involved in the kidnapping. However, when he reports his suspicion to the police, they don't take him seriously.

Determined to solve the case, Jack continues his investigation and poses as a businessman to get closer to the family. He befriends Joan's brother and starts to work his way through the suspects. During this time, Jack meets a Scotland Yard detective, Inspector Wilson (Aubrey Mallalieu), who is also investigating the case. The two share information and collaborate as they try to track down the kidnappers.

Jack's investigation eventually leads him to the kidnappers' hideout. He succeeds in rescuing Joan and recovering the painting. However, the mastermind behind the kidnapping is still at large. Jack continues to investigate, and eventually finds the person responsible for the crime.

Bulldog Jack is a charming and lighthearted film that showcases the talents of its stars. Hulbert is excellent as the charismatic and witty detective, and Wray is lovely as the British aristocrat in distress. Ralph Richardson delivers an impressive performance as the tycoon, Sir James Quentin. The film contains a delightful blend of comedy, suspense, and romance, and Forde's masterful direction keeps the story moving at a brisk pace.

The film is also notable for its production design and costumes as it accurately depicts the opulence of the British upper class in the 1930s. The film's opening sequence, which features Jack taking Doris on a date through London, is especially noteworthy for the way it captures the bustling city during that period.

Overall, Bulldog Jack is a delightful British comedy that is sure to delight fans of the genre. It's a charming and well-crafted mystery, and its talented cast and engaging story make it a film worth revisiting.