The Dummy Talks (1943)

Although there is an underlying murder mystery to this, it is essentially an excuse to feature some wartime variety artistes and showcase their talents. Insofar as it really matters, the ventriloquist at a theatre is found murdered. Now I was never a fan of that particular skill, so the police could probably have included me in the list of suspects, but there was simply no need. Just about everyone had some sort of motive. Anyway, rather hapless detective "Harbord" (Claude Hulbert) is on the case. The narrative of this investigation is peppered by some quite enjoyable on-stage efforts from the likes of Jack Warner and the star for me - Beryl Orde, but for the most part it is a WWII feel good film that would certainly have raised a smile then, but struggles to now. The ending with the dummies is quite amusing, but sadly just way too obvious. It isn't rotten, but it's not much cop either.