Seven Keys to Baldpate (1929)

SEVEN KEYS had been a stage perennial since before WWI, and a couple of times a motion picture by the time of this release, it being the first of several talkie versions. Semi-distinguished director Reginald Barker approached the prospect of filming it cinematically, using what is basically a story taking place in one set, the lobby of the Baldpate Inn. He deftly moves the camera set-ups from long shots, mid-shots, and different angles all in rapid succession, never lingering long enough to look like it's slowing down. In other words, the visuals match the fast pace of the dialogue. This alone is a distinct departure from most of the first year or so of Radio pictures, which often are uninspired, no-frills filmed plays. The dramatic highlight comes as the whole horde of strangers, including the crooked Mayor and the Railway president and even the up-to-now innocent man (Dix) trying to do the right thing with a sense of humor, seize the sheriff after he tries to steal the money, pulling him over a desk and tearing into him, seen from above, like the death of Richard III in the 1955 Laurence Olivier classic. At that moment, it seems that all the civilization that existed in this small world has broken down. The story really couldn't go anywhere but the way it did, unless maybe to use an "It was all a dream" ending.I do have a complaint though, in that it's revealed that it was in fact, all a sham, with everyone really being actors put up to trick our hero, it seems like a cheat, or an outright lie to show scenes completely out of our hero's sight and knowledge playing out "in character", including the Sheriff all confused down at police HQ, and cops investigating a murky basement of Baldpate, yet in the final summing up, we learn that such a basement referenced earlier never existed, it was only part of the ruse. Still an enjoyable film.

This 1929 movie is definitely a product of its time. There are fast- talking conmen, brilliantined inhabitants of Arrow collars, and tough molls talking out of the sides of their mouths. For me, though, it's one of the best of its type. There is some genuine suspense and if one hasn't seen any of the OTHER dozen or so versions, the plot will keep you on your toes.The story is, by design, a little far-fetched and the reason for that, when we learn it, is hilarious. But the characters and their motives are refreshingly human and realistic. Who hasn't been inclined to take themselves a little too seriously? Who hasn't decided to administer a little pinprick to a friend's pomposity? None of the actors was particularly active during the silent era, and it shows. The acting is much more naturalistic than that of the typical recycled silent-movie actor of the time. These are real people with real neuroses, crushes, and vanities, and they sparkle with real mischief.Don't miss this one, and don't be put off by the early date. It is a fast-paced, clever delight of a movie. Enjoy!

Always enjoyed veteran actor Richard Dix and was very surprised to view this 1929 film, which tells the story about Dix leaving New York and going to a far away place in a very cold and lonely resort mansion. Dix accepted an offer of $5,000.00 if he could write a novel in this isolated place. He was given the only key and housekeepers were informed of his arrival and heated up the place for him. Dix sits at his typewriter and starts to work on his book which he has to complete in 24 hours in order to win the bet with his friend who owns the resort.You will never be able to figure out just what happens and it is a real comedy as well as, a drama and a crime to be solved.

The story Seven Keys to Baldplate is truly one for the spectators of the first half of the 20th century. It was originally an Earl Derr Biggers novel (author of Charlie Chan) and then a popular stage play in the teens. It was filmed 6 times between 1917 and 1947. None of the available versions are particularly interesting today.The 1917 George M. Cohan film (one of his few starring roles in a film) was solid and gave a better overview of the story of the book. This 1929 Richard Dix version is like many early talkies, basically a filmed stage play. What is best about this one is that there is a germanic influence on the lighting and sets. There are some wonderful shots of Dix, when he arrives at the Inn, sitting in the dark next to the moody light of the fireplace. The story is never enthralling enough and we really feel like we are watching a stage play. It is interesting to look at it from that aspect, however.Ultimately a curio, this 1929 film is worth watching if you are in the mood for an early talkie. The 1935 version is actually not as good as it is too light and whimsical and truly disappoints as it was made in the heyday of horror and mystery films.