The Thin Man Goes Home Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Nick tries to impress his dad by solving a murder in his small town, while also pretending he’s not an alcoholic, all because his wife wants him to have a better relationship with his family.

🍿 The Thin Man Goes Home: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Visiting Sycamore Springs

Nick and Nora Charles decide to visit Nick’s parents in his hometown of Sycamore Springs. Nick’s father, Dr. Bertram Charles, has always been somewhat disappointed that Nick chose a career as a detective instead of following in his footsteps as a doctor. The townsfolk, aware of Nick’s reputation, assume he’s in town for a case, despite his insistence that he’s simply on vacation.

Murder on the Doorstep

Their peaceful visit is disrupted when a young painter, Peter Berton, is shot dead on the doorstep of Nick’s parents’ home. Berton had come to Nick seeking help or confession, but was killed before he could speak. This thrusts Nick, reluctantly at first, into investigating the murder, much to the excitement of Nora, who sees it as an opportunity for Nick to impress his father.

A Town Full of Suspects

As Nick delves deeper, he uncovers a web of secrets and suspects within the seemingly quiet town. Among them are Edgar and Helena Draque, an art-collecting couple eager to acquire a specific painting by Berton; Willie Crump, a nervous art dealer; and Laura Ronson, a dramatic young woman with ties to both Berton and Dr. Bruce Clayworth. The investigation reveals hidden connections and motives, complicating the case.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Nick Charles (William Powell): A witty and sophisticated former detective who reluctantly investigates a murder in his hometown while trying to impress his disapproving father.
• Nora Charles (Myrna Loy): Nick’s wealthy and supportive wife, who enjoys adventure and playfully encourages Nick to solve the mystery, aiming to earn his father’s respect.
• Dr. Bertram Charles (Harry Davenport): Nick’s father, a respected doctor, who is initially disappointed in Nick’s career choice and lifestyle.
• Dr. Bruce Clayworth (Lloyd Corrigan): A seemingly helpful and mild-mannered doctor who is ultimately revealed to be the murderer, motivated by greed and a desire to protect his interests.
• Crazy Mary (Anne Revere): An eccentric and mentally unstable woman from Nick’s past who holds a crucial piece of the puzzle in the murder case.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Brogan: “Well, cut off my legs and call me Shorty.” – Brogan’s memorable exclamation upon being discovered hiding in the bushes.
• Nora: “Nicky always says there’s a skeleton in nearly every closet, and if you rattle it hard enough something always happens.” – Nora explains to Nick’s mother her theory on how to find a case for Nick to solve, stirring up trouble.
• Nora: “I’m going to sell it and use the money to hire a detective.” – Nora jokingly threatens to sell a painting when Nick is reluctant to investigate, highlighting their playful dynamic.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $1,000,000
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: N/A

💥 The Thin Man Goes Home Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely adore the Thin Man movies! Seeing Nick and Nora navigate small-town life was hilarious. I loved the scene where Nora tries to convince Nick’s dad that he’s a genius detective – it’s pure gold. And the whole painting mystery kept me guessing until the very end. This movie is just pure comfort and fun.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of classic mystery comedies”
  • “Those who enjoy the ‘Thin Man’ series”
  • “Viewers interested in 1940s cinema”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild violence”
  • “Some dated cultural portrayals”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Though slightly less sparkling than its predecessors, ‘The Thin Man Goes Home’ maintains the series’ charm thanks to Powell and Loy’s impeccable chemistry. The mystery is less intricate, but the witty banter and familiar faces make for enjoyable viewing.
• The New York Times: “While the small-town setting offers a change of pace, the film lacks the sharp wit and sophisticated atmosphere of earlier installments. Powell and Loy remain delightful, but the plot feels somewhat contrived and the mystery less compelling.
• IMDb User Review: “An enjoyable entry in the Thin Man series, ‘The Thin Man Goes Home’ offers a refreshing change of scenery with Nick and Nora visiting Nick’s hometown. The chemistry between Powell and Loy is still fantastic, and the supporting cast is excellent.

Audience Reactions

The witty banter between Nick and Nora remains a highlight, providing plenty of laughs and entertainment.: Fans appreciate the change of scenery and the introduction of new characters in Nick’s hometown.

Many viewers enjoyed the dynamic between Nick and his father, finding the family drama relatable and engaging.: The humor, although sometimes broad, is generally well-received, adding to the film’s lighthearted charm.

Overall Consensus: A charming but slightly less sharp entry in the Thin Man series, offering a pleasant change of scenery and enjoyable performances from Powell and Loy.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “This was the first film in the series not directed by W.S. Van Dyke, who committed suicide in February 1943 after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.”
• “Myrna Loy took time away from acting to focus on war relief efforts, making this her only film between Pearl Harbor and V-E Day.”
• “The movie subtly incorporates themes of wartime work and security, reflecting the anxieties and priorities of the era.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Thin Man Goes Home?

As a classic film, ‘The Thin Man Goes Home’ is available for purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. Check your local listings for availability on streaming services like HBO Max or through classic movie rental services. While a subscription might not be necessary, purchase or rental options are widely available.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Thin Man Goes Home, you might like these similar films:

• The Thin Man (1934): The original film that launched the series, featuring the same witty banter and mystery-solving dynamic between Nick and Nora.
• Arsenic and Old Lace (1944): A dark comedy with quirky characters and a mystery plot, sharing a similar lighthearted approach to macabre themes.
• Murder, My Sweet (1944): A classic film noir with a detective investigating a complex case, appealing to fans of mystery and suspense.
• Knives Out (2019): A modern whodunit with a star-studded cast and a clever mystery, capturing the spirit of classic detective stories with a contemporary twist.

🛒 The Thin Man Goes Home Related Products

• The Complete Thin Man Collection [DVD]: Own all six Thin Man movies featuring William Powell and Myrna Loy in this definitive collection.
• William Powell & Myrna Loy: The Signature Collection [DVD]: Celebrate the iconic duo with this collection featuring multiple films starring William Powell and Myrna Loy.
• The Thin Man: A Dashiell Hammett Mystery: Delve into the original Dashiell Hammett novel that inspired the entire Thin Man series.
• Vintage Thin Man Movie Poster: A high-quality reproduction of the original movie poster, perfect for decorating any fan’s home theater.

🎧 Soundtrack

The Thin Man Goes Home features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Happy Birthday to You” – performed by Mildred J. Hill and Patty S. Hill
• “N/A” – performed by Incidental film music

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

CLASSIC MOVIE REVIEW: THE THIN MAN & AFTER THE THIN MAN – STEVE HAYES: Tired Old Queen at the Movies

Want to dive deeper into the witty world of Nick and Nora Charles? This review breaks down why ‘The Thin Man’ movies are so iconic, and honestly, the reviewer’s enthusiasm is contagious!

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