Re: Sidney Toler in Chan movie but not as Charlie Chan
Hi Kent,
The clue to your question is in your description of "local detective." Given that clue, I believe you may be thinking of one of two films.
1. "Blonde Venus" (1932 Paramount) starring Marlene Dietrich. Toler appears in this film, in a supporting role, as Detective Wilson. He shares two memorable scenes with Dietrich in this touching melodrama.
2. "A Night to Remember" (1943 Columbia) starring Loretta Young. Toler co-stars with the great Gale "Spider Woman" Sondergaard in this sparkling comedy-mystery. There's a bit of Charlie Chan in Toler's portrayal of Inspector Hawkins.
Hmm. I wonder what movie you are thinking of. Good luck in your quest.
Re: Sidney Toler in Chan movie but not as Charlie Chan
As a side note... Sidney Toler and Keye Luke appear together in the serial Smiling Jack (1942)... as a Chinese General and Captain respectively, throughout the serial..... only place I know of that they appear onscreen together.
