Many years ago as a child, I recall watching Chan movies (as well as many other B&W mysteries). I am happy to see them on Netflix and have been introducing my own kids to their wit. One that I recall best, but cannot remember the name (and may not even be a Chan film). Murder investigation was occuring inside a house with everyone inside the sitting room. Lights went out and someone would disappear due to a trapdoor operated by a chair. The african american assistant/sidekick discovered it and helped solve the crime while saying "first I sat here in the chair like this. Then I .... like this, and (shouts) Here I go again boss."
Thanks for asking. The film that you are thinking of is not a Charlie Chan film. It is ... (drum roll please), "Topper Returns" (1941 Hal Roach Productions).
During this film, Eddie "Rochester" Anderson sits in a mysterious chair. On a certain clue, the chair drops its victims into a long-fall ramp into a pool of water.
Thank you very much. I have tried to find the name of that film for some time. I was probably 12 or so when I saw it (and that was quite some time ago now). Now that my kids are old enough to appreciate these classics, and share my love for suspense films I can add this to my collection. Thanks again!!!
