Cast
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Warner Oland
as Charlie Chan
Boris Karloff
as Gravelle
Keye Luke
as Lee Chan
William Demarest
as Sergeant Kelly
Guy Usher
as Inspector Regan
Margaret Irving
as Mme. Lilli Rochelle
Gregory Gaye
as Enrico Borelli
Nedda Harrigan
as Mme. Lucretia Borelli
Frank Conroy
as Mr. Whitely
Charlotte Henry
as Mlle. Kitty
Thomas Beck
as Phil Childers
Maurice Cass
as Mr. Arnold
Tom McGuire
as Pop Morris - Stage Doorman
Marc Lawrence
as Undetermined Minor Role (uncredited) (unconfirmed)
Joan Woodbury
as Dancer in Opera (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- H. Bruce Humberstone
Writer
- Charles Belden
Reviews
CinemaSerf
I think this might well be my favourite outing for our Hawaiian super sleuth. This time, Warner Oland must investigate some very suspicious goings on in a theatre. Unbeknown to all of us, this theatre has it's very own phantom... but whom? Why? Well, that's all rather entertainingly explained over the course of the hour as he - with the help of son "Lee" (Keye Luke) - must stop this from becoming an operatic game of Russian Roulette. Now there is absolutely no jeopardy - it is pretty clear early on who the culprit it; but our journey of discovery is quite cleverly managed by director Bruce Humberstone with engaging efforts from Margaret Irving, Charlotte Henry, Gregory Gaye and, of course, Boris Karloff. Oscar Levant and William Kernell provide us with some operatic numbers that authenticate the process and the thing has a good deal of fun to it, too. Definitely worth watching, this one..
Jun 19, 2022
Thematic Analysis
Charlie Chan at the Opera represents a fascinating example of Crime/Mystery/Thriller cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director H. Bruce Humberstone brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1936, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Charlie Chan at the Opera took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 68 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 102 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 304 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1936, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Charlie Chan at the Opera shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Silentium, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Charlie Chan at the Opera offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Birth and Charlie Chan's Chance explore similar territory, Charlie Chan at the Opera stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 4, 1936
- Runtime: 1h 8m
