Watch Dick Tracy Vs. Crime Inc. (Original Serial)

Dick Tracy is a classic comic strip character created by Chester Gould in 1931. The detective with his trademark yellow fedora and trench coat has been entertaining audiences for several decades across various mediums, including television, cinema, and radio. In 1941, Ralph Byrd reprised his role as Tracy in the serial movie "Dick Tracy Vs. Crime Inc.," produced by RKO Pictures.

The movie packs in fifteen episodes, each spanning about twenty minutes. The runtime is tight, and the narrative is fast-paced, packed with action, and twists that keep viewers on edge. The story revolves around Tracy, who's tasked with bringing down the notorious Crime Inc., a criminal syndicate that's been plaguing the city. The head of Crime Inc. is Pa Stark, who has been involved in several nefarious activities, including stealing bonds, hijacking airplanes, and counterfeiting.

Tracy takes on the challenge and starts sifting through clues to get to the bottom of the case. He works with his team of agents, including Gwen Andrews, who he's in a romantic relationship with, and Vitamin Flintheart, a bumbling but loyal sidekick. Along the way, the detective faces several challenges, including thwarted attempts on his life and the kidnapping of his team members.

As the story unfolds, we witness stunning car chases, shootouts, and fist-fights that are characteristic of pulp fiction stories. The action set-pieces are well-executed, and the black and white cinematography elevates the grittiness of the world Tracy inhabits. The serial movie is a product of its time, embodying the idealism that America had during the second world war era. Tracy is portrayed as an upright, no-nonsense detective, who's revered by the citizens of the city. His mission to take down Crime Inc. reflects the larger goal of ridding the country of nefarious elements.

Ralph Byrd's portrayal of Tracy is excellent. He embodies the character's stoic and determined spirit, exuding an aura of authority and heroism. Byrd's line delivery is crisp and precise, conveying Tracy's sharp mind and analytical abilities. He's also a physical actor, showcasing agile footwork and fluid movements during the action sequences.

The other actors in the movie also provide standout performances. Kay Hughes as Gwen Andrews brings a charming wit and intelligence to her role. She's Tracy's equal in every way and holds her own during the more perilous moments of the movie. The character of Vitamin Flintheart is played by Ian Keith, who portrays him as a bumbling but endearing sidekick. Keith's eccentricities and comedic timing add levity to the narrative, balancing out the darker aspects.

The villains of the movie are also well-crafted. The character of Pa Stark, played by Charles Middleton, is a menacing presence, embodying the ruthless business-like qualities of a crime lord. His henchmen are also given ample screen time and are played by capable actors who bring a sense of menace and danger to the proceedings.

The production values of the movie are impressive, given the limitations of the time. The sets and costumes are well-crafted, and the special effects, while rudimentary by today's standards, are still effective in conveying the action. The serial movie's score, composed by Paul Sawtell, adds a dimension of suspense and excitement, making the action sequences more engaging.

Overall, "Dick Tracy Vs. Crime Inc." is a thrilling and entertaining serial movie that captures the essence of the character of Tracy. The narrative is straightforward, with clear-cut villains and heroes, making it an ideal watch for all ages. The serial's legacy still lives on, with the character of Tracy continuing to inspire new iterations in popular culture. Fans of the character and of pulp fiction will find plenty to enjoy in this original serial, which remains a classic of the era.

Dick Tracy Vs. Crime Inc. (Original Serial) is a series that ran for 4 seasons (15 episodes) between January 1, 1941 and on CONtv