Above Suspicion

Rating 4/5

Above Suspicion is a lesser known romance-spy thriller starring Joan Crawford and Fred McMurray. It is a fun, puzzle solving ride that is lovable more for its' characters and charm, rather than its' ability to be deemed a "classic".

Frances and Richard Myles are a newlywed couple about to embark on their honeymoon, but are thrown a curveball when an old college friend of Richard recruits him to become a spy to aid in the war effort against Germany. Richard agrees, as does his wife, and they are sent to Germany on their errands of espionage. On their mission, they encounter many puzzles, riddles, and suspicious characters. All of which they must overcome if they are to learn about the new weapon that the Germans have obtained.

What may seem like a story of just straight up suspense, it is actually quite humorous. The two main characters are almost giddy at the prospect of being spies, and the only way I can think to describe the way they carry out their mission is gripping and adorable.

Of the many, many Joan Crawford movies I've seen, I think this is one where her charm and powerful presence is really put to good use. Frances makes me think of Grace Kelly's character in Rear Window. She refuses to sit back and watch the action unfold. In fact, she demands to be a part of it, and proves to everyone that she can be just as strong and savvy as her male counterparts.

I truly enjoy this movie, and that can be proven by the number of times that I have watched it. It isn't a thriller in the Hitchcock sense of the word, but it is a great ride and definitely an old movie worth watching.