Shadow of the Thin Man

Movie sequels are seldom satisfying, but the Thin Man Series is an exception. “Shadow of the Thin Man,” the fourth entry in the six-film series, is a rollicking ride with Nick Charles (William Powell) solving the death of a jockey and two subsequent murders in the seedy world of gambling. There’s an interesting mystery and a fun assemblage of character actors as suspects, plus a very young Donna Reed and a rare screen appearance by Stella Adler. And, if you look closely, you may spot Ava Gardner in an uncredited role as a passerby. But as usual, the best part of the Thin Man movies is the witty dialogue and winning chemistry between Nick and Nora (Powell, Loy). Some actors don’t like performing with children or animals because they steal the show. However, Powell and Loy hold their own and even seem to relish their scenes with the adorable Nicky Jr. (Richard “Dickie” Hall) and their comic dog Asta. (97 min.)

Unrated - 1941

Starring:
William Powell
Myrna Loy
Barry Nelson
Donna Reed
Sam Levene
Alaz Baxter
Henry O’Neill
Richard Hall
Stella Adler
Lou Lubin
Louise Beavers

Director:
W.S. Van Dyke

Writers:
Dashiell Hammett (characters)
Harry Kurnitz (story, screenplay)
Irving Brecher (screenplay)