Watch The Phantom Fiend

The Phantom Fiend is a British film released in 1932 which tells the story of Maurice Avery (Ivor Novello), a talented composer who is popular among the high class members of society. He lives with his mother (Marie Wright) and their butler, Peters (A.W. Baskcomb) in a large mansion. The local police seek Maurice's help as there is a serial killer on the loose in the city, who has already killed four rich men. The killer leaves a calling card at the scene of every murder, which depicts a snake consuming its own tail- an ancient symbol for infinity that is commonly known as the Ouroboros. This is the only evidence that the police have to work with, and it is not enough to help them catch the killer.

Maurice is approached by Detective Inspector Landon (James Carew), who pleads with him to use his numerous contacts in the city's elite circles to help catch the killer. Maurice is able to gather information by attending high society evenings and dinners. At one of these gatherings, he meets an attractive young lady named Betty (Elizabeth Allan) and the two quickly become close. When Maurice discovers that Betty's father is the next victim on the killer’s list, he decides to take action and begins his own investigation.

The plot thickens as Maurice begins to connect the dots and realizes that the murders are all connected in some way. He fears that the killer may be someone he knows, and suspects he may be living in the same house as him. Maurice’s suspicion becomes compounded when he finds one of the Ouroboros symbols in his own library. He realizes that the killer may be using him as a cover and that Peters, his butler, may hold vital clues to solving the mystery.

The story takes you through suspenseful twists and turns as Maurice and Detective Inspector Landon race against time to solve the mystery before it's too late. This complex crime drama is directed by Maurice Elvey and adapted from the novel “The Mystery of the Dead Police” by Freeman Wills Crofts. The Phantom Fiend is a dark and atmospheric movie with an engaging plot and unexpected ending.

Ivor Novello delivers an outstanding performance as Maurice Avery, a talented and charming man with a troubled past. He brings depth and determination to his character as he tries to solve the mystery and clear his name at the same time. Elizabeth Allan’s portrayal of Betty is equally impressive as she brings a blend of vulnerability and strength to the role. A.W. Baskcomb, as Peters, is another strong actor who delivers a convincing performance as the butler with a mysterious past.

The Phantom Fiend is visually striking, and the atmosphere of the movie is enhanced by the use of shadow and lighting, which creates a tense and ominous feeling throughout the movie. The movie also features an impressive musical score composed by Ivor Novello, which adds to the intensity of the film.

Overall, The Phantom Fiend is an entertaining and suspenseful crime thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With engaging performances by Ivor Novello, Elizabeth Allan, and A.W. Baskcomb, as well as a well-crafted plot and outstanding visuals, The Phantom Fiend is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good mystery movie.

The Phantom Fiend is a 1935 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 7 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.