I've always wondered if Cleveland's famous "Torso Murders" were the inspiration (if one may call it that) for Shadows Over Chinatown?

From 1935 to 1938, twelve dismembered victims (similar to the film) were found and only 2 were ever identified. The cases were made all the more famous as Elliot Ness, then Safety Director of CLE, never solved the case before heading off to Chi-Town!

I can't remember, but in the Chan film doesn't he reference a previous case somewhere? Here's a link if you'd like to read about these gruesome crimes:

https://www.clevelandpolicemuseum.org/collections/torso-murders/

Dear Lou,

Thank you for the "gruesome information"! But, then, such is usually the case with murder!

In last night's movie, there was a brief mention of "Trunk Murders." I looked them up tha one was associated, I believe, with Louisiana in the '20s, and the other came to light in Phoenix, Arizona in 1932. I suppose that these and what you mentioned as well as other weird killings probably inspired the "Torso Murders" as seen in "Shadows Over Chinatown."

Takee care...TYSM...

-Rush

Dear Rush, so many "dicy" murders you must be correct! Probably a recapitation...er, I mean recapitulation of many a gory crime that made the headlines. However, I claim close proximity rights (date wise) over those other two affairs :trophy:

hi.

Did you know that it is NOT a Charlie Chan movie?

That's a surprise, isn't it?

In contrast to the movie before and after.
Check the gallery for Alibi, Chinatown and Money.

Look at the publicity stills to prove it.

See? Chinatown is a Charley Chan movie :joy:
Huh? Really?

M.

Michael H., you had me there for awhile! I wonder if the folks at Monogram ever caught that mistake? Or maybe "Charley" Chan was Charlie's younger brother...yuk, yuk! Good catch!

Dear Michael,

Oh, that Monogram publicity department!

Sincerely,
Rush