Moss Rose (1947)

While far from a classic, Moss Rose is an entertaining little mystery. Genre buffs who are seeking something less familiar will probably find Moss a nice change of pace from the more popular titles, and its period setting does give it a little whiff of difference. The story itself is not terribly different from dozens of other mysteries, but it does offer a heroine that's a bit more self-interested than many of the more typical femmes non-fatale. Basically an "old dark house" type of picture, Moss also has the distinction of featuring Vincent Price but as a man of the law rather than one of the suspects. Price is good, though less fun than usual; the part doesn't allow the actor to indulge his deliciously hammy side, but it's also not challenging enough to stretch his genuine dramatic talent. He's therefore perfectly fine but not a stand out. Victor Mature is rather wooden, but Peggy Cummins makes a distinct impression as the cockney lass who ends up the center of all the action. And Ethel Barrymore is excellent as the mother, demonstrating her skill at every opportunity. The screenplay gets bogged down in places, and there's not as much suspense as one might wish, but Moss is still worth a vieweing. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide