Watch Unexpected Guest

Unexpected Guest is a classic mystery thriller movie from 1947, directed by George Archainbaud and starring William Boyd, Andy Clyde and Rand Brooks. The movie is set in a small town during the 1940s, where a wealthy businessman is murdered in his home. The story revolves around the investigation of the murder, with various suspects and twists.

The movie begins with a voiceover of the businessman, Mr. Elliott, who introduces himself and his family, as well as his various business ventures. Mr. Elliott is a well-known and respected member of the community, but he also has enemies who may want to harm him. One day, he receives a mysterious phone call, which he takes in his study, and shortly after, he is shot and killed.

The next morning, the police arrive at the house and begin their investigation. The first suspect is Mr. Elliott's former business partner, who had a falling out with him and owed him a significant amount of money. However, as the investigation continues, other suspects emerge, including Mr. Elliott's estranged wife, his daughter's boyfriend, and even his loyal butler.

The investigation is led by Detective Sergeant Reynolds, played by William Boyd, who is a no-nonsense cop with a sharp eye for detail. He is assisted by his sidekick, Andy Clyde, who provides some comic relief and adds to the movie's charm. Together, they interview each suspect and piece together the clues to unravel the mystery.

As they dig deeper, they discover secrets and hidden motives that lead them down unexpected paths. The movie shifts between various suspects, showing their backstories and potential motives, keeping the audience guessing about the murderer's identity until the very end. The tension heightens with each reveal, and the story builds to a dramatic climax with a stunning twist that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Apart from the intriguing plot and suspenseful storytelling, the performances of the cast are noteworthy. William Boyd gives a memorable performance as the detective, displaying his trademark gravitas and wit. Andy Clyde's onscreen chemistry with Boyd is excellent, and he provides a lighthearted touch to the movie's dark themes. Rand Brooks also impresses as the suspect with a soft spot for Mr. Elliott's daughter, played by Betty Compson.

Another factor that adds to the movie's appeal is its classic noir aesthetic. The film's cinematography and lighting create the mood of the gloomy, rain-drenched town to great effect. The shadows and silhouettes add an extra layer of menace, hinting at the potential danger lurking around every corner.

Overall, Unexpected Guest is a gripping mystery thriller that holds up its own to this day. The combination of a well-crafted plot, heavy atmosphere, and strong performances by the cast make it a highly entertaining watch. It's a movie that provides an insight into the crime genre of the era and is recommended for both fans of classic cinema and newcomers alike.