A Study in Scarlet (1933) | Directed by Edwin L. Marin

A Study in Scarlet is a mystery film that loosely adapts elements of Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes story but takes considerable liberties with the original plot. In this version, Holmes and Watson investigate a series of mysterious murders linked to a secret London society. The story blends detective intrigue with elements of melodrama, focusing on revenge, hidden identities, and sinister schemes.

Genre: Mystery, Crime, Detective

Director: Edwin L. Marin

Edwin L. Marin (1899–1951) was an American film director who became known for his prolific output during the 1930s and 1940s. Specializing in crime dramas, mysteries, and later westerns, Marin was valued in Hollywood for his reliability and efficiency in the studio system. He directed over 50 films in his career, including projects with stars such as Randolph Scott, George Raft, and Bela Lugosi. Though not considered an auteur, his steady craftsmanship ensured his films maintained audience appeal.

Star Cast:

Reginald Owen as Sherlock Holmes

Anna May Wong as Mrs. Pyke

June Clyde as Eileen Forrester

Alan Dinehart as Thaddeus Merrydew

Warburton Gamble as Dr. Watson

J. M. Kerrigan as J. H. Pearson

Alan Mowbray as Capt. Pyke

Wyndham Standing as Malcolm Dearing

The film was received with mixed reactions. Sherlock Holmes fans were disappointed by the loose treatment of Conan Doyle’s novel, as the screenplay strayed heavily from the source material. However, audiences enjoyed the performances, particularly Reginald Owen’s serious take on Holmes and Anna May Wong’s presence as a strong supporting character. The movie found modest success as a crime mystery but is remembered today more for its curiosity value among Holmes adaptations rather than as a faithful retelling.

Fun Facts:

Reginald Owen is one of the few actors in cinema history to have played both Sherlock Holmes (in this film) and Dr. Watson (in the 1932 film Sherlock Holmes).

The film’s title suggests a direct adaptation of Conan Doyle’s first Holmes novel, but in reality, the story is almost entirely original, with little resemblance to the book.

Anna May Wong’s appearance gave the film a unique cultural angle, as she was one of the first Chinese-American stars in Hollywood to achieve international fame.

This was one of the earliest sound-era Sherlock Holmes films, preceding Basil Rathbone’s definitive portrayal that began in 1939.

The movie is in the public domain today, which has contributed to its continued availability despite its initial modest reputation.

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