Love From a Stranger (1937)

Love From a Stranger is an imperfect but very engaging little thriller. Adapted from an Agatha Christie story, it has many of the hallmarks associated with the writer, although it lacks a central detective character in Poirot or Marple manner. But the screenplay is a lovely little game of cat-and-mouse, with cat and mouse changing roles frequently and to great effect. There's little depth to the goings-on, either in terms of character or theme, which damages the film somewhat, and the first half is somewhat slow going. While this tendency to drag is almost built into the story, director Rowland V. Lee could still have employed a few tricks to alleviate the sluggishness; however, once things get moving they really move, and the last half is enormous fun. Ann Harding and Basil Rathbone are a total delight, with Rathbone especially relishing the chance in the latter part of the film to let go; rarely does one get to witness such an over-the-top performance that still works beautifully. Fans of Rathbone and/or thrillers will have a great time; even non-fans should enjoy themselves if they stick with the film through the first half. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide