The Next Reel Film Podcast

Shadow of the Thin Man • The Next Reel

2023-01-12

Nick and Norah investigating a murder at the racetracks

W.S. Van Dyke’s back to have another good time with Nick and Nora Charles, though this time it’s with different writers. How does that affect things? And is William Powell seeming to be feeling better this time around? Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our Thin Man series with a conversation about Maj. W.S. Van Dyke II’s Shadow of the Thin Man.
Here’s a hint at what we talk about.

The mystery’s better this time around, though the actual reveal seems a bit tepid. Does that affect our enjoyment of the film? Maybe a little, but it’s still quite fun. Plus, the comedy feels like it’s back on track and Powell seems to be having a great time, even if he doesn’t get to play drunk much. We chat about Nick, Jr. and how that addition to the story works for us. We also talk about the odd undercranked gags they do with Asta that we mostly enjoy. The characters are as fun as ever. We just wish the final reveal felt a bit more interesting.
Still, it’s a fun film with fantastic characters. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
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