The Mystery of the 13th Guest (1943) | Directed by William Beaudine

"The Mystery of the 13th Guest" is a classic mystery film set around a bizarre and eerie event tied to a wealthy family's legacy. The story begins with the reading of a will, held 13 years after the death of the patriarch, Grandfather Morgan. His granddaughter, Marie Morgan, is instructed to sit in a specific chair at the dinner table, the same chair she occupied as a child during a mysterious dinner 13 years earlier where 12 guests were present, but the identity of the 13th guest remained unknown. Soon after her arrival, Marie finds herself at the center of a murder investigation when bodies begin to pile up. With the help of private investigator Johnny Smith and the bumbling Police Captain Ryan, Marie attempts to unravel the mystery of the 13th guest and survive the deadly game that has been set in motion.

"The Mystery of the 13th Guest" is a remake of a 1932 film of the same name, both adaptations of the novel *The Thirteenth Guest* by Armitage Trail. Directed by William Beaudine, known for his prolific output of B-movies, this 1943 version retains the eerie and suspenseful atmosphere of the original while adapting it to a more fast-paced, wartime audience. Monogram Pictures, a studio renowned for producing low-budget but entertaining films, delivered a compact and effective mystery that caters to fans of whodunits and crime thrillers.

The film is a fine example of 1940s B-movie mysteries, characterized by its straightforward plot, concise runtime, and a mixture of suspense and light humor. Helen Parrish gives a strong performance as the imperiled heroine, Marie Morgan, while Dick Purcell brings a rugged charm to the role of the private investigator. The supporting cast, particularly Tim Ryan as the comedic Captain Ryan, adds to the film’s appeal with their distinctive characters. Although the movie was made on a modest budget, the direction by William Beaudine ensures that the suspense remains palpable, and the mystery unfolds in a manner that keeps the audience engaged.

"The Mystery of the 13th Guest" is not a groundbreaking film but is appreciated for what it represents within its genre and era. It offers a tight, engaging plot that does not outstay its welcome, making it a suitable choice for fans of classic mysteries. The film has received attention from critics and film historians for its contribution to the Monogram Pictures catalog and for its representation of the era’s approach to mystery filmmaking. It’s noted for its effective use of atmosphere and its ability to deliver a satisfying mystery within the constraints of its low-budget production.

The film, like many of Monogram Pictures’ productions, has benefited from preservation efforts due to its historical significance and enduring appeal to classic film enthusiasts. It remains accessible through various classic film collections and continues to be a point of interest for those studying mid-20th-century mystery films.

Cast:
Helen Parrish as Marie Morgan
Dick Purcell as Johnny Smith
Tim Ryan as Police Captain Ryan
Frank Faylen as Speed Dugan
Paul McVey as Uncle Adam Morgan
Jacqueline Dalya as Marjory Morgan
Johnny Duncan as Bud Morgan
Cyril Ring as Thor Jensen
Lyle Talbot as James Carson