“MISSING WITNESSES”

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXII, 15 April 1939, Page 4

“MISSING WITNESSES”

Those honest but timid citizens who arc frightened away from the law courts or otherwise disposed of by racketeers against whom they might testify. form the subject of a sensational story. Jean Dale, a newcomer to films, makes her first appearance as a leading woman in “Missing Witnesses,” ;md a very pretty and capable starlet she turns out to be. She gives an excellent performance which augurs well for her screen career. John Lite! in the role of the special investigator gives j one of those compelling performances i which he has been turning out since I his initial screen role in “Midnight j Court.” Dick Purcell, another up-and- | comer, is grand as Miss Dale’s detccI live-lover. William Haade, who was 'drafted from his job as a steel-worker ! to Play a leading role in Norman Bet Geddes’ Broadway production of "Iron j Men.” from which route he came to j Hollywood, does a very fine job. The picture was directed by William [ Clemens from a screen play by Don j Ryan and Kenneth Garnet, these latter ! a couple of ace police reporters who have written several successful crook j movies. These two writers haunt the j courts in search of realistic movie material. and have as their anonymous collaborators any number of judges, detectives and special investigators. From the quick-moving realistic tempo of "Missing Witnesses.” it would appear that that, is how they get their ideas. Packed with drama, the film sacrifices nothing—not even romance—to reality.