Cast
View AllGeorge Sanders
as Simon Templar
Helene Reynolds
as Anne Bitts
Jonathan Hale
as Inspector Henry Fernack
Bela Lugosi
as Partner
Donald MacBride
as Inspector John H. Bohlen
John F. Hamilton
as Limpy
Thomas W. Ross
as Professor Horatio T. Bitts
Elliott Sullivan
as Monk 'Warren'
Stanley Blystone
as Detective Sadler (uncredited)
Ralph Dunn
as Police Sergeant (uncredited)
Byron Foulger
as Ephraim Byrd (uncredited)
Billy Franey
as Street Shooting Witness (uncredited)
Edward Gargan
as Police Sergeant (uncredited)
William Haade
as Helm Van Roon aka 'The Dutchman' (uncredited)
Donald Kerr
as Card Player (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Jack Hively
Producer
- Cliff Reid
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Saint's Double Trouble represents a fascinating example of Crime/Mystery 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 Jack Hively 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 1940, 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 The Saint's Double Trouble took approximately 11 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 114 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2005 individual shots.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1940, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Saint's Double Trouble shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Saint, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Saint's Double Trouble offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Saint Takes Over and The Saint's Return explore similar territory, The Saint's Double Trouble stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 26, 1940
- Runtime: 1h 8m