Shadow of the Thin Man
Seen it?1941 | 97 min | Comedy, Crime, Mystery
Sunday Safe Betearly ratingWhy it’s a Sunday Safe Bet
It earned strong reviews (88% on Rotten Tomatoes). A safe bet when you want something reliable.
Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.Is it for you?
- Who'll love it
- Made for crime fans, anyone who likes to be kept guessing and anyone who wants a laugh. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
- The mood
- Light and funny, tense.
- The pace
- Breezy, at 1 hr 37 min.
- What might put you off
- Made in 1941: an older pace and style.
- Audiences were cooler on it than critics.
While attending a major horse race with their young son, Nick Jr., Nick and Nora Charles witnesse a shocking murder from the crowded grandstand. What first appears to be an isolated killing soon leads to a maze of corruption, blackmail, gambling scandals, and criminal intrigue. As Nick investigates, he encounters suspicious bookmakers, dishonest officials, rival gangsters, and a mysterious killer determined to stay ahead of the law. Nora, as always, is never far from the action, bringing her quick wit and fearless curiosity to the case.
How it earned its rating
- CriticsStrong
88% on Rotten Tomatoes, 63 on Metacritic
- AudiencesSolid
7.0 out of 10
- AwardsNot counted
No major awards or nominations
- Box office & staying powerSolid
$2 million worldwide on a $821K budget; still draws a steady audience long after release
- Buzz & cultural impactSolid
About 33K people sought it out in the past year
Trailer
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Cast & crew
Directed by W.S. Van Dyke
- William PowellNick Charles
- Myrna LoyNora Charles
- Barry NelsonPaul Clarke
- Donna ReedMolly Ford
- Sam LeveneLieutenant Abrams
- Alan BaxterWhitey Barrow
- Henry O'NeillJason Sculley
- Richard HallNick Charles Jr.
- Stella AdlerClaire Porter
- Loring SmithLink Stephens