Mystery of the 13th Guest

Mystery of the 13th Guest is a 1943 American murder mystery film directed by William Beaudine. The movie stars Helen Parrish, Dick Purcell, and Tim Ryan. It is based on the book of the same name by Armitage Trail.

The movie begins with millionaire playboy Kenny Williams (Paul McVey) inviting 12 of his closest friends to his mansion for a dinner party. However, before the guests arrive, Williams is murdered. The remaining guests are all suspects, and each has a motive for killing him.

The film follows the investigation led by Detective Stratten (Tim Ryan) and Williams' lawyer, John Barksdale (Dick Purcell), who takes the lead in unraveling the mystery. More murders happen as the investigation progresses, but the detectives and the remaining guests are determined to solve the case.

Throughout the investigation, suspicion falls on each of the 12 guests, including glamorous nightclub singer Marie Morgan (Helen Parrish) and Williams' bickering siblings, Dick (Jacqueline Dalya) and Carolyn (J. Farrell MacDonald).

The plot thickens as the detectives find out about Williams' shady business dealings and link the murders to his business partners. The killer's identity is finally revealed in a climactic twist, leaving the guests and detectives stunned.

Mystery of the 13th Guest is a classic whodunit murder mystery with plenty of suspense and plot twists. The film's plot is gripping and keeps the audience guessing until the very end. Helen Parrish's performance as the glamorous nightclub singer adds a touch of glamour to the story, while Tim Ryan and Dick Purcell's performances provide the right balance of seriousness and levity.

The movie's setting, a mansion filled with hidden passages and dark corners, adds to the suspense of the plot. The cinematography is also noteworthy, with clever camera angles used to heighten the tension.

Overall, Mystery of the 13th Guest is an entertaining murder mystery that is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Its well-crafted plot, talented cast, and stunning cinematography make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.