MikeMagi
Despite the title, Rogues Tavern, the movie's setting isn't a tavern -- no bartender, no beer taps, no cracked leather stools -- it's a creaky hotel somewhere out in the countryside. On the other hand, there's at least one rogue on the premises; otherwise, why would the hostelry's guests keep getting their throats clawed? Detective Wallace Ford is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery with the klutzy help of his bride-to-be, Barbara Pepper. Fortunately, he's one of the few members of the cast who has some acting ability -- although you gotta' admit that the tirade launched by Clara Kimball Young late in the movie adds a whole new dimension to the Smithfield school of dramaturgy. Suggestion -- if it's a dark and stormy night and you're looking to scare up a few scares, pass by this inn on the outskirts of poverty row and register at James Whales' "The Old Dark House."
wes-connors
"A collection of travelers has gathered at the 'Red Rock Tavern', an old hotel, during a thunderstorm. All arriving for different reasons, the group is suddenly drawn together by the murder of one of the guests. Two store detectives staying at the hotel try to solve the case as other bodies turn up and the terror increases with each passing moment," according to the DVD sleeve's synopsis.An eclectic cast makes this "old dark house" variation fairly entertaining, albeit structurally flawed. The leading man and woman are "store detectives" Wallace Ford (as Jimmy Kelly) and Barbara Pepper (as Marjorie Burns). But, the real treat is seeing former silent film superstar Clara Kimball Young (as Mrs. Jamison), in one of her more meaty later year roles. The matronly Ms. Young was one of the biggest stars in films during 1913-1919, and she still has her way with the camera.***** The Rogues Tavern (1936) Robert F. Hill ~ Wallace Ford, Barbara Pepper, Clara Kimball Young
matjusm
A nice film for a dark and stormy night. If of course you are willing to squeeze and eye or two shut regarding some shortcomings. The premises is simple- a young couple about to get married arrive at an isolated hotel. There they find various other people who for some reason or another have also gotten there just recently. One by one however people start getting killed and an almost wed detective takes up the case to solve the mystery before he too becomes a victim. This is a classic mystery well suited for a dark and stormy evening or another similar occasion. There is mystery, there is horror and there are thrills and the concept of the film is excellent. However it is the dated execution that hinders this film from reaching the heights it could have reached. The acting is quite wooden and things that are supposed to be said secretly and discreetly are presented loud and with excellent articulation as if in a theater. The plot could have been a little better developed and have played more on the "whodunit" angle. However if you are willing to overlook these shortcomings, then this is still a rather enjoyable film.
Hitchcoc
Here we are again. In an old dark house (hotel, tavern, inn), where a group of jewel robbers are hiding out. A detective and his not-so-dumb blond fiancée show up to meet a justice of the peace. Meanwhile a murder is committed. A throat torn out, supposedly by a wolf-dog, who generally is tethered outside the tavern. There is a lot of byplay, with even an invalid man coming under suspicion. Others begin to get bumped off as well. People come and go. Suspicious characters and policemen and a cast of several investigate. Make sure you think of everyone as a suspect. There is pretty good humor and a little slapstick. The detective is so dense, it makes you wonder if he could find his hat in a closet. He doesn't listen to anyone, but at times seems pretty lucid. Anyway, there is nothing new or remarkable about this film, but it is fun and the conclusion is worth the wait.
AD
