Inspector Hornleigh Goes To It is a black-and-white detective film from the 1940s that takes place during World War II. Starring Gordon Harker as Inspector Hornleigh, the film is based on a character from a British radio series of the same name. The plot follows Hornleigh and his partner Sergeant Bingham as they try to solve a murder case while also uncovering a spy network in London.
The film begins with the murder of a young woman who was last seen leaving a pub with an unknown man. Inspector Hornleigh and Sergeant Bingham are assigned to the case and quickly find themselves in the middle of a complex web of deceit and espionage. Meanwhile, the spy network is trying to acquire information on a top-secret submarine that is being developed by the British military.
One of the key features of Inspector Hornleigh Goes To It is its balance of drama and humor. The interactions between Hornleigh and Bingham are often comedic, with Harker's performance adding a lot of levity to the film. However, this humor is tempered by the seriousness of the murder investigation and the threat posed by the spy network.
As the detectives continue to investigate the murder, they soon realize that it is connected to the spy network. The man seen leaving the pub with the victim is identified as a member of the spies, and Hornleigh and Bingham begin to track him down. This leads them on a chase through London, with some exciting action sequences that include car chases and rooftop pursuits.
The film also includes several twists as Hornleigh and Bingham uncover more layers to the case. Without spoiling anything, it can be said that it is not always clear who can be trusted, and the detectives must use all of their skills to uncover the truth.
The production values of Inspector Hornleigh Goes To It are not particularly high by modern standards, but the film still holds up as a piece of classic British crime drama. The sets and costumes evoke the time period effectively, and the film's use of real-life locations around London adds to its authenticity.
Another standout element of the film is its use of sound. The score by Jack Beaver is memorable and adds a lot to the film's atmosphere. In addition, the sound design is impressive for a movie of this era, with various sound effects used to heighten the tension during key scenes.
Overall, Inspector Hornleigh Goes To It is a fun and engaging crime drama that will appeal to fans of the genre. While it may not have the polish or spectacle of more modern productions, it makes up for it with strong performances and a compelling story. Gordon Harker in particular is a standout, and his portrayal of Inspector Hornleigh ensures that the film is both entertaining and charming. While it may not be a classic in the traditional sense, it is certainly worth checking out for those looking to experience some vintage British cinema.
