The Crouching Beast
A British agent's secret dies with him in Constantinople.
The Crouching Beast is a 1935 British war thriller film directed by Victor Hanbury. It stars Fritz Kortner, Wynne Gibson and Richard Bird, and was written by L. du Garde Peach based on the 1928 novel by Valentine Williams. Distributed by RKO Pictures to meet its British quota, the film was notably more expensive than many quota quickies of the era.
Quick Facts
- Director
- Victor Hanbury
- Producer
- John Stafford
- Based on
- The Crouching Beast by Valentine Williams
- Writer
- L. du Garde Peach
- Starring
- Fritz Kortner
- Wynne Gibson
- Richard Bird
- Music
- Jack Beaver
- Cinematography
- James Wilson
- Editing
- David Lean
Facts from the source article.
Did You Know?
- The film is set in 1915 during the First World War.
- The plot involves secret Turkish plans for the Gallipoli Campaign.
- An American journalist becomes the key contact for the British spy network in Constantinople.
Reception
The Monthly Film Bulletin found the film missed its potential due to redundant episodes, poor dialogue, and indifferent acting, noting that Fritz Kortner's fine performance was undermined by very English Turks and cardboard settings. Picture Show observed that the menacing figure of 'Clubfoot' loses menace in a melodrama where he is outwitted by an American girl and an Englishman, and that the direction failed to make the most of situations and thrills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who composed the music for The Crouching Beast?
The music for The Crouching Beast was composed by Jack Beaver.
How long is The Crouching Beast?
The Crouching Beast has a running time of 78 minutes.
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