The Riverside Murder

The Riverside Murder is an intriguing and suspenseful mystery film from 1935. The movie is directed by Albert Parker and stars Basil Sydney, Judy Gunn, and Zoe Davis. It is an adaptation of the novel The Divorce Court Murder by A.A. Milne.

The movie begins with a married couple, Evelyn and John Hilliard, going through a divorce. After the court hearing, John invites his estranged wife to visit their former home and pick up some of her belongings. However, during the visit, a mysterious intruder appears, and John is shot dead. Evelyn is the only witness, and the police believe that she is the one responsible for the murder.

Lawyer Michael Lord (Basil Sydney) is assigned to defend Evelyn in court. Lord, who is convinced of her innocence, sets out to investigate the murder and uncover the real culprit. Along the way, he discovers that there are several suspects with potential motives for the murder, including a jealous ex-husband, a scorned lover, and an opportunistic housekeeper.

As Lord delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit and lies that threaten to derail his efforts to prove Evelyn's innocence. But with his sharp wit and deductive reasoning, Lord finally identifies the killer and reveals the truth behind the Riverside Murder.

The Riverside Murder is an engaging and well-crafted mystery film that keeps the audience guessing until the very end. The storyline is tightly woven, and the characters are well-developed, with each one having their own motivations and secrets.

Basil Sydney delivers an outstanding performance as Michael Lord, the determined defense lawyer who stops at nothing to uncover the truth. His character's intelligence, resourcefulness, and tenacity make him a compelling protagonist who is easy to root for.

Judy Gunn also shines as Evelyn Hilliard, the accused murderer who maintains her innocence even in the face of overwhelming evidence. Her character's vulnerability and sincerity create a sense of empathy and sympathy from the audience.

Zoe Davis is also excellent as the housekeeper, Mrs. Treadwell, who is shifty and evasive in her statements to the police. Her character's ambiguity and duplicity make her a fascinating suspect, and it's never clear until the end of the movie what her true intentions are.

Aside from the excellent performances, The Riverside Murder also benefits from the superb cinematography and setting. The film takes place in a beautiful riverside mansion, which serves as an elegant backdrop to the unfolding drama. The intricate camera work and moody lighting create a sense of tension and mystery that pervades the entire movie.

In conclusion, The Riverside Murder is a classic example of a well-executed mystery movie that will keep you guessing until the very end. With its engaging storyline, talented cast, and beautiful setting, it is a timeless film that still holds up today. Whether you're a fan of the genre or just looking for a good suspenseful movie, The Riverside Murder is well worth a watch.