Murder in a Small Town

It's been a long time since I have seen old Gene on the screen (couldn't resist). Gene Wilder's Murder is a class act all the way. Interesting characters, good mystery, overall very nice. The third act of the movie did feel hurried. I think it was less than 15 minutes (screen time) from second murder to conclusion. I also get the feeling that this was a prep for a series of movies. Some of the characters were given strong introductions only to disappear (like the daughter) and others were a little weak overall (Gene's girlfriend). I hope that they do more movies with these characters. I wouldn't mind revisiting the material.

Gene Wilder is terrific in his over-the-top comedic triumphs ("The Producers", "Young Frankenstein", "Blazing Saddles", and more), but hasn't always been wisely used in more moderate roles. "Haunted Honeymoon" comes to mind!

This one, though, is extremely enjoyable, and I hope it's the beginning of a series. His performance is smart, restrained, believable, professional, and witty. The movie, a lovely period piece murder mystery, is a surprisingly effective vehicle for him. It has everything for a satisfying couple of hours on the sofa: 1930s costumes and cars, detective work, romance, and light comedy.

Let's have more of Wilder in this kind of role.

This is a delightful well executed period murder mystery. The suspects are developed in the traditional manner early in the movie. The interaction between the detective and a drama producer is done with understated humor. There is in fact a lot of between-the-lines humor which Gene Wilder plays off in a brilliant manner. It is great to see Wilder in a role such as this, contrasting with his more over-the-top style of comedy acting in his early films. So what is there not to like in a well written story, well acted and with an evocative 1930's setting?

I love this movie.The time period sets & characters were very engrossing.I was truly surprised as to the outcome of this movie.I thought I had it all figured out.This film reminds me of the board game "Clue".I will probably purchase this movie.There is a little bit of "CHINATOWN" in the movie's plot.Terrific acting & use of guile to fool the viewing audience.Very entertaining.I hope WILDER reprises his role.

Nothing too heavy, but a wonderful romp into the late 1930's. An A&E murder mystery true to all the marvelous classic conventions with fine performances by all. Plenty of humor, good feeling, and eccentric characterizations more than make up for a rather spartan plot. Just relax and enjoy.