1955 British film by Bernard Knowles
Barbados Quest (U.S. title: Murder On Approval) is a 1955 British crime drama film directed by Bernard Knowles and starring Tom Martin and Delphi Lawrence.[1][2] It was written by Kenneth Hayles. Martin played the same role in a sequel, Breakaway (1955).
Plot
An American philatelist pays £10,000 (£331,000 in 2023[3]) for what he thinks is a rare postage stamp. After he becomes concerned of its authenticity, he employs detective Tom "Duke" Martin to investigate.[4]
Cast
Critical reception
The Monthly Film Bulletin wrote: "This confused and rather tiresome production introduces Tom Conway in what may be the first of a series similar to his Falcon thrillers. The character of "The Duke" is scarcely distinguishable from the other; and his sophistication appears as spurious, and his humorous and romantic moments as irritating, as his predecessor's. Apart from a few "shock" cuts, the treatment is generally unadventurous, the earlier sequences in particular lacking action and variety. Among the supporting players, Michael Balfour wrings the utmost out of some miserable light relief."[5]
Kine Weekly wrote: "The picture is far from crystal clear, but it packs widely assorted types into its plot and the brisk interplay of character, leading to spectacular gunplay, enables it to circumsvent flat spots. Tom Conway has an engaging manner and acts confidently as Duke, Delphi Lawrence disarms as the comely, yet unscrupulous, Jean, Brian Worth registers as Blake, and Michael Balfour amuses as Barney. The settings are suitably varied, the dialogue has an edge and the climax carries a kick."[6]
TV Guide noted "An inept mystery."[7]
References
External links
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