CS # 497. Dangerous to Know (1938)

CS # 497. Dangerous to Know (1938)

is an American crime film directed by Robert Florey, recognized today as a significant "proto-noir". The screenplay, written by William R. Lipman and Horace McCoy, is based on the 1930 play On the Spot by British crime writer Edgar Wallace, which was inspired by the career of notorious mobster Al Capone.
Plot Synopsis
The story follows Stephen Recka (Akim Tamiroff), a powerful and cultured racketeer who dominates city politics and business with an iron hand. Despite his criminal influence, Recka craves acceptance into elite high society.
The Conflict: At his birthday party, organized by his loyal "hostess" and mistress Madame Lan Ying (Anna May Wong), Recka becomes infatuated with socialite Margaret van Case (Gail Patrick).
The Scheme: To win Margaret’s hand, Recka orchestrates a elaborate plot to frame her boyfriend, bond salesman Phillip Easton (Harvey Stephens), for theft.
The Climax: Recka offers to clear Easton's name only if Margaret agrees to marry him. However, he underestimates the depth of Lan Ying’s jealousy and loyalty. In a tragic finale, Lan Ying takes her own life in a way that ensures Recka is arrested for her "murder," finally forcing him to pay for his lifetime of unconvicted crimes.