Brass Monkey (film)


Brass Monkey is a British comedy thriller with musical asides, directed by Thornton Freeland. It stars Carroll Levis, a radio variety show host and talent scout and American actress Carole Landis. This was Landis' last film. Also known as The Lucky Mascot, the film is noted for an early appearance by comic actor Terry-Thomas, playing himself.
Though made in 1948, Brass Monkey wasn't released in the US until 1951.

Plot

Popular radio presenter Carroll Levis, and Kay Sheldon find themselves entangled in a web of smuggling and murder. When a priceless "brass monkey" is stolen from a Japanese temple and smuggled into England, Levis encounters the eccentric Mr. Ryder-Harris, a Buddhist art connoisseur who's chasing the artefact, and will apparently stop at nothing to get it. The monkey is missing and there's a suspicion murders are being committed in the hunt for its retrieval. With the help of the Discoveries radio talent, Levis attempts to avoid murderous henchman Herbert Lom, and foil Mr. Ryder-Harris's plans. Amongst all the mayhem, an array of musical and comedy performers audition for and appear on The Levis Hour, the hero's weekly radio programme.

Cast

Landis arrived in England to make the film in August 1947. Landis says she encouraged English actors to speak slower so US audiences could understand them.

Songs