The Mystery of Mr. Wong 1939
"A gay party is interrupted by murder and the world's most costly jewel stolen!"
In this 1939 mystery-thriller, Boris Karloff stars as Detective James Lee Wong, a sharp-witted sleuth tracking a stolen sapphire known as the "Eye of the Daughter of the Moon." The jewel, smuggled from China to America, carries a dark legend—all who touch it face a deadly fate.
Director: William Nigh
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Mystery of Mr. Wong (1939) about?
This 1939 mystery follows Detective James Lee Wong as he races to recover the "Eye of the Daughter of the Moon," a priceless and cursed sapphire stolen from China. When the gem surfaces in America during a high-society gathering, Wong uncovers a web of deceit in the city's Chinatown, leading to a deadly confrontation in the infamous "House of Hate."
Who directed The Mystery of Mr. Wong?
William Nigh directed The Mystery of Mr. Wong, helming this atmospheric blend of mystery and crime set against the backdrop of 1930s Chinatown.
Who stars in The Mystery of Mr. Wong?
The film stars Boris Karloff as Detective James Lee Wong, alongside Grant Withers, Dorothy Tree, Craig Reynolds, and Ivan Lebedeff in pivotal roles.
Is The Mystery of Mr. Wong (1939) worth watching?
For fans of classic mysteries and noir-inspired thrillers, The Mystery of Mr. Wong is a compelling pick. Karloff's charismatic performance and the film's tight 68-minute runtime make it a brisk, engaging watch, even if it leans into the pulp adventure side of the genre.
How long is The Mystery of Mr. Wong?
The Mystery of Mr. Wong has a runtime of 68 minutes.
About The Mystery of Mr. Wong (1939) — Boris Karloff's Detective Hunt for a Deadly Sapphire
In this 1939 mystery-thriller, Boris Karloff stars as Detective James Lee Wong, a sharp-witted sleuth tracking a stolen sapphire known as the "Eye of the Daughter of the Moon." The jewel, smuggled from China to America, carries a dark legend—all who touch it face a deadly fate. When a high-society party turns deadly and the gem vanishes, Wong dives into the shadowy underbelly of Chinatown, where the sinister "House of Hate" hides more than just secrets. Directed by William Nigh, this atmospheric crime drama blends classic noir tension with the exotic allure of 1930s Chinatowns, all wrapped in a plot thick with deception and danger.
The Mystery of Mr. Wong (1939) is a quintessential pre-war mystery, where every clue feels like a ticking clock and every suspect hides a motive. With its moody cinematography and Karloff's commanding presence, the film immerses viewers in a world where beauty and peril walk hand in hand. Whether you're a fan of vintage detective stories or just love a good suspense flick, this 68-minute gem delivers intrigue, atmosphere, and a dash of the macabre.