Four Hours to Kill!

Synopsis

Four Hours to Kill! is a 1935 American crime drama featuring Richard Barthelmess as Jim Guthrie, a man who has a brief window of four hours to resolve matters before an impending deadline. The film intricately weaves suspense and character-driven storytelling as Guthrie moves through a bustling city environment, encountering a cast of characters, each with their own intentions and secrets. A blend of mystery and tension, the movie explores themes of redemption, fate, and justice. Director Mitchell Leisen crafts a compelling narrative that unfolds in real-time, keeping the audience engaged as each hour ticks by and the true stakes become clear.

Cast

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  Richard Barthelmess

  Tony Mako

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  Ray Milland

  Carl Barrett

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  Joe Morrison

  Eddie

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  Gertrude Michael

  Mrs. Sylvia Temple

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  Helen Mack

  Helen

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  Dorothy Tree

  Mae Danish

Reviews

Four Hours to Kill! has received a moderate reception from both audiences and critics over the years. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.8/10, indicating generally favorable opinions with appreciation for its engaging storyline and solid performances. Critics have praised Richard Barthelmess for his nuanced portrayal of Jim Guthrie, highlighting his ability to bring depth to a character caught in a moral dilemma. Some reviews note that the film's pacing reflects its 1930s sensibilities, which might feel slow to modern viewers but adds to the tension and atmosphere. The direction by Mitchell Leisen is frequently complimented for its stylish and efficient storytelling, even within the constraints of early sound cinema. However, some critics have pointed out that the film's secondary characters and subplots sometimes feel underdeveloped, which may dilute the overall impact. Unfortunately, Four Hours to Kill! does not have a score on Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic, likely due to its age and relative obscurity. Despite this, vintage film enthusiasts and classic crime drama fans often regard it as a worthwhile watch for its period charm and dramatic suspense.