The thrill spectacle of the year!

Starring: Joel McCrea, Laraine Day, Herbert Marshall, George Sanders, Albert Bassermann, Robert Benchley, Edmund Gwenn, Eduardo Ciannelli, Harry Davenport, Martin Kosleck, Ian Wolfe

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ - great

"I don't want any more economists, sages, or oracles bombinating over our cables. I want a reporter! Somebody who doesn't know the difference between an -ism and a kangaroo. A good, honest crime reporter." – Mr. Powers

Why watch this? This fast-moving, conspiracy-laden thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Plot Summary: On the eve of World War II, an American crime reporter, John Jones, is sent to Europe to interview a Dutch diplomat, Van Meer, about the probability of war. At an event, he also falls for Carol, the intelligent and witty daughter of Mr. Fisher, spokesman for the Universal Peace Party. Jones gets a brief conversation with the pleasant Van Meer, only to later witnesses the man's assassination. Jones chases the culprit through Holland, tracking him to a massive windmill in the Dutch countryside.

Dad's Preview:  In a plot that only Hitchcock could dream up, we are shown a sinister conspiracy plot prior to the start of World War II. The depth of story and many elaborate sets (the windmill scene, a plane crash into the cold seas) give this film a sense of realism. This is intricate espionage as people are kidnapped, drugged, tortured and murdered. Part of its genius is that we are never quite sure who the good guys are. The actors performances are top-notch, notably the determined, regular-guy, Joel McCrea, and beautiful newcomer, Laraine Day.

Walter Wanger Productions; United Artists