THE MASTER MINDS OF MYSTERY!|Sep. 18, 1942|United States|65 Min.|n/A
Genre: Crime;Mystery;Thriller
Description: The film *Sherlock Holmes and the Voice of Terror* from 1942 presents a unique take on the iconic detective duo, Holmes and Watson. Set in the 1940s instead of their traditional Victorian era, the movie explains this shift by describing the characters as “ageless.” A subtle homage to the classic Holmes is seen when he initially picks up his deerstalker hat but reluctantly switches to a fedora upon Watson’s insistence.
The plot revolves around Holmes being summoned by Sir Evan Barham to aid British Intelligence in thwarting Nazi saboteurs operating within the UK. These saboteurs announce their attacks in advance through radio broadcasts known as “The Voice of Terror.”
The story intensifies when one of Holmes’ operatives, Gavin, is fatally stabbed with a German dagger. Before dying, Gavin whispers the word “Christopher.” Holmes and Watson then head to London’s Limehouse district to meet Gavin’s wife, Kitty.
Using an oscilloscope to analyze sound wave patterns, Holmes deduces that “The Voice of Terror” is pre-recorded in the UK but broadcast from Germany. Following a lead from Kitty, Holmes, Watson, and Sir Anthony Lloyd investigate the old Christopher Docks, where they are ambushed by Nazi spies led by Meade. A group of East End men comes to their rescue, allowing the trio to escape, though Meade flees via a trapdoor to a waiting speedboat.
This gripping tale blends suspense, espionage, and the timeless brilliance of Sherlock Holmes.
Cast director: John Rawlins
Cast actor: Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce, Evelyn Ankers, Reginald Denny, Thomas Gomez, Henry Daniell, Montagu Love, Olaf Hytten, Leyland Hodgson, Mary Gordon
Original name: Sherlock Holmes and the Voice of Terror