Today’s quick review: Another Thin Man. Nick (William Powell) and Nora (Myrna Loy) Charles are on a trip with their one-year-old son when Colonel MacFay (C. Aubrey Smith), the manager of Nora’s estate, calls them with dire news. He and his family are being meanced by Phil Church (Sheldon Leonard), an ex-employee with a grudge and the brains to do real harm. As a retired detective, it’s up to Nick to resolve the situation before anyone gets hurt.
Another Thin Man is a crime comedy and the third film in the Thin Man series. William Powell and Myrna Loy reprise their roles as Nick and Nora Charles, an upper-crust couple with a knack for solving crimes. Another Thin Man holds the same appeal as the previous movies: witty banter, a light tone, and a suitably convoluted mystery. However, a more far-fetched plot than usual and less room for humor make the film a slight step down from its predecessors.
Another Thin Man hits many of the same beats as the first two films. The highlight remains Nick and Nora’s relationship, which is built on sidelong glances, quips, and a surprising amount of trust. But Another Thin Man makes less time for the two of them to interact with one another, robbing the frim of some of its zest. What’s left over is still enjoyable, but it is not handled as expertly as the original.
Watch Another Thin Man if you’re a fan of the series or in the mood for a bit of light mystery. William Powell and Myrna Loy are still enough to carry the film, and the flaws in its script are only noticeable in comparison with the original. Skip it if you’re looking for a deeper mystery or humor with more of an edge. For a successor that works in more slapstick and a bungling hero, try The Pink Panther.
7.5 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 to 7.5 for two great leads and some good humor.