Summary
The Mystery Club is a 1929 mystery film that follows the peculiar and convoluted plot of an organization of wealthy men who wager that crimes can be committed without detection by the police. Inspector Burke serves as the arbiter of this peculiar game, and the stakes escalate when Burke is reported murdered, and valuable jewels are stolen. The members of the club find themselves under suspicion and intrigue, leading to a series of misunderstandings and revelations. The film's plot is filled with twists and turns, but it is also a product of its time, with a more lighthearted take on crime and mystery compared to modern standards. The film stars a cast of notable actors and is directed by Frank Lloyd, known for his work in the silent film era.
Synopsis
The Mystery Club, an organization of millionaires, draws up an agreement at the instigation of Cranahan, wagering that crimes can be committed without detection by the police; Inspector Burke serves as arbiter. A forfeiture of $25,000 is set, and the members draw secret lots to decide who is to be the criminal. When Burke himself is reported murdered, the members agree to cancel the agreement but cannot find the document. The jewels of Mrs. Vanderveer are also missing, and in their place she finds a note implicating the club and causing the members to suspect one another. Nancy telephones club member Dick Bernard, her sweetheart, that the jewels will be returned for a fee, which Dick delivers to her in a low dive; subsequently, a kidnapping and forgery charge is laid at the club's door. Cranahan finally explains that he has schemed to get the club members interested in criminology, and thus relieved of their "crimes" they gladly contribute to an institute for criminal reform.
