Much as I like Chester Morris and the Boston Blackie series, when you see these films in close proximity to one another, the formula becomes a little bit of a bore.Blackie (Morris) and The Runt (George E. Stone) are given the assignment of guarding a woman who is wearing her very expensive pearls at a party. Guess what. They're stolen and Inspector Farraday (Richard Lane) and company blame Blackie. So he has to clear himself by finding them.There were some cute scenes in this film, the best when Blackie with a mustache goes to a dance school to take lessons. He's hilarious, talking about from the time he was so high - no, this high, he's wanted to dance. "I'm a bird in a cage," he says. "Dancing will release me." June Vincent is a beautiful blonde who gives the film some real class - she really should have had a better career in films. She never moved up from the Bs. She moved into television in the '50s and did very well.I never understand how Farraday can't see right through all those disguises, but I guess you have to go along with the illusion of film.Morris gives the film a light, relaxed touch, and thank goodness because he keeps these movies going. This particular film is okay, worth seeing for Blackie trying to infiltrate his way into the dance studio and for seeing them pose as husband and wife - a riot.This was George E. Stone's last appearance as The Runt.

Trapped by Boston Blackie (1948) ** 1/2 (out of 4) Thirteenth film in the Columbia series has Boston (Chester Morris) and the Runt (George E. Stone) accused of stealing some jewels so they must try and clear themselves as well as save another innocent woman. This film starts off pretty slow and routine but once Morris gets going the film takes off, although it's still not one of the better films of the series. Richard Lane is back as the dimwitted Farraday and he and Morris mix it up like old time. The highlight is a scene where the Runt has to dress in drag to get by some police waiting for him at a hotel.

Seymour Friedman directs this the twelfth in Columbia Picutre's "Boston Blackie" series. Horatio "Boston Blackie" Black(Chester Morris)is assigned to protect a priceless pearl necklace that a socialite intends to show off at a swanky party. The private dick officially assigned to guard the necklace is found dead and the baubles are nowhere to be found. Now "Blackie" is on the spot; he must locate the real crook before he is arrested on suspicion. His reputation and life may be at stake. Atmospheric crime tale. Great photography. Also among the players: George E. Stone, Richard Lane, June Vincent, Frank Sully, Patricia Barry, and Sarah Shelby.

Fun stuff, easy on the mind after working all day. Chester Morris fits Blackie to a tea! Blackie and Runt do a great Ma and Pa disguise. They are just as I remembered them. I look forward to watching more of Boston Blackie.