The Sphinx

The Sphinx is a 1933 mystery film that tells the story of a Scotland Yard detective, Captain John Lexman (played by Lionel Atwill), who is wrongfully accused of murder and imprisoned. However, he escapes from his cell and tries to clear his name by finding the real killer. The film also stars Sheila Terry as Betty Harper, the woman who helps Captain Lexman in his quest for justice, and Theodore Newton as a wealthy man who might know something about the murder.

The plot of The Sphinx begins with Lexman being wrongly accused of murdering his fiancée's brother. Despite his insistence that he is innocent, he is convicted and sent to prison. The real killer, however, is still on the loose, and Lexman knows that he must find him to prove his innocence. After escaping from prison, Lexman takes refuge in his friend's house and starts investigating the murder case. Betty Harper, a reporter, helps him in his quest, and the two soon find themselves in the middle of a dangerous plot involving blackmail, lies, and betrayal.

The Sphinx is a classic whodunit film that keeps the audience guessing until the very end. The plot is well-constructed, with several twists and turns that keep the viewer engaged. The film's pacing is also impressive, with the action moving along at a good clip without ever feeling rushed. The cinematography is also noteworthy, with some striking shots and effective use of shadows and light to create a moody atmosphere.

The performances in The Sphinx are uniformly solid. Lionel Atwill is excellent as the determined and resourceful Captain Lexman, conveying both his intelligence and his frustration at being wrongly accused. Sheila Terry is also good as the plucky reporter who helps him in his quest. The chemistry between the two actors is also believable, adding a touch of romance to the story. Theodore Newton, as the wealthy man with a dark secret, plays his role with just the right amount of ambiguity, making the audience wonder whether he is a friend or foe.

One of the strengths of The Sphinx is its focus on character development. Each character is given enough screen time to establish their personality and motivations, adding depth to the story. The film also explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and justice, making it more than just a straightforward mystery.

Overall, The Sphinx is a well-made and engaging mystery film. Its strong plot, pacing, and performances make it an enjoyable watch for fans of the genre. While some of its conventions may now seem familiar to modern audiences, it still stands up as a solid piece of entertainment nearly 90 years after its release.