I'll Sell My Life

The premise may be a stretch but does hold some interest. Too bad Clifton's direction mangles the potential. So why does Hobart leave a strange letter with kindly soul Whalen along with several thousand dollars. Whalen's to hold the letter until a large remaining sum is paid him. If the money is not paid, he's to open the letter and see that justice is done whatever that might mean. And, oh yes, the transaction is to take place after Hobart's death which she implies is imminent.

Yeah, the plot's kind of involved. Still, we wonder what's in the mysterious envelope, why Hobart is to die, and what would be the required justice. Unfortunately, director Clifton undercuts the mystery with no atmosphere, silly comical characters, and a meandering narrative (he's also a co-writer). Fortunately, actress Hobart gives the story what impact it has; at the same time, leading man Whalen's character is both a stretch and blandly played. For me, the best part are the nightclub acts and Woodbury's revealing tight skirt.

Overall, the flick's a wasted opportunity. I'm just sorry RKO, for example, didn't get a shot at the material during its 40's period of dark shadows and ironical fate. Then we might have had something memorable instead of a belly flop.