Watch Think Fast, Mr. Moto
- NR
- 1937
- 1 hr 6 min
-
6.7 (1,212)
Think Fast, Mr. Moto is an American film from 1937, directed by Norman Foster and starring Peter Lorre as the title character, Mr. Moto. The movie is a thrilling mystery that takes place in the exotic and mysterious East. The plot follows socialite, Gwen St. Clair, played by Virginia Field, who is traveling from San Francisco to Shanghai to visit her father, who is a geologist working in China. On the ship, she meets Mr. Moto, a Japanese detective who is investigating a series of thefts that have been taking place on board. Mr. Moto quickly becomes suspicious of one of the passengers, Tom Nelson, played by Thomas Beck, who seems to be hiding something.
As the ship nears Hong Kong, the captain is murdered and only Mr. Moto seems to be capable of solving the mystery. He takes charge of the situation, using his intelligence and quick thinking to deduce the identity of the murderer and preventing further violence on the ship. Using his knowledge of martial arts, Mr. Moto engages in several thrilling fight scenes throughout the movie and uses his cunning and intellect to outsmart the clever thieves.
The film is set in the 1930s, during a time of political upheaval and danger in East Asia. Japan's expanding empire is clashing with the European colonial powers, and the threat of war is looming over the region. The movie plays with these political tensions, creating a sense of danger and urgency as the characters navigate the complex political landscape.
Peter Lorre delivers a standout performance as Mr. Moto, a character that he would reprise in several sequels. He brings a sense of wit and charisma to the role, playing the character as an enigmatic and resourceful detective who is always one step ahead of everyone else. Virginia Field also shines as Gwen, a strong and independent woman who proves to be an asset in Mr. Moto's investigation.
The movie features stunning cinematography, particularly in the scenes set in Hong Kong's bustling streets and markets. The film also has a memorable score, which captures the tension and excitement of the story.
Think Fast, Mr. Moto is a thrilling and entertaining movie that holds up well after more than eight decades. It's a classic mystery that keeps the audience guessing until the very end, and the charismatic performance by Peter Lorre makes it a must-watch for fans of the actor. The film is a testament to the golden age of Hollywood filmmaking, with its intricate plot, striking visuals, and memorable performances.