Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome Poster

Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome 1947

★ 5.330 votes65 min📅 1947-09-26

"KARLOFF PETRIFIES THEM!"

In this 1947 action-packed crime thriller, the legendary Boris Karloff steals the spotlight as Gruesome, a hulking enforcer with a sinister past who stumbles upon a terrifying secret—a paralyzing gas that could turn him into an unstoppable criminal mastermind.

Director: John Rawlins

Cast

Boris Karloff
Boris Karloff
Gruesome
Ralph Byrd
Ralph Byrd
Dick Tracy
Anne Gwynne
Anne Gwynne
Tess Trueheart
Edward Ashley
Edward Ashley
Dr. L.E. Thal
June Clayworth
June Clayworth
Dr. I.M. "Irma" Learned
Lyle Latell
Lyle Latell
Pat Patton
Tony Barrett
Tony Barrett
Melody
Skelton Knaggs
Skelton Knaggs
X-Ray
James Nolan
James Nolan
Dan Sterne
Joseph Crehan
Joseph Crehan
Chief Brandon

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome (1947) about?

The film follows Gruesome, a menacing ex-convict who accidentally inhales a paralyzing gas and is presumed dead before reviving and escaping. When the gang uses the gas to rob a bank, legendary detective Dick Tracy steps in to unravel the mystery and bring the criminals to justice.

Who directed Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome?

The movie was directed by John Rawlins, known for his work in crime and noir-style films during the 1940s.

Who stars in Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome?

The film stars Boris Karloff as Gruesome, alongside Ralph Byrd as Dick Tracy, Anne Gwynne, Edward Ashley, and June Clayworth in pivotal roles.

Is Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome (1947) worth watching?

With its compact runtime and Boris Karloff's unforgettable performance, this 1947 crime thriller offers a fun, fast-paced escape into classic noir territory. Fans of vintage mystery and action will appreciate its clever twists and nostalgic charm.

How long is Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome?

Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome runs for 65 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome (1947): Full Plot & Cast Breakdown

In this 1947 action-packed crime thriller, the legendary Boris Karloff steals the spotlight as Gruesome, a hulking enforcer with a sinister past who stumbles upon a terrifying secret—a paralyzing gas that could turn him into an unstoppable criminal mastermind. When Gruesome accidentally inhales the gas and collapses, police mistakenly pronounce him dead and wheel him to the morgue, where he surprisingly revives and escapes. This bizarre turn of events catches the attention of the indomitable detective Dick Tracy, setting the stage for a cat-and-mouse chase through shadowy alleys and high-stakes heists.

Director John Rawlins crafts a pulpy, suspenseful atmosphere where crime and science collide, blending classic noir elements with the over-the-top energy of a serial adventure. With its tight 65-minute runtime, Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome delivers relentless twists, a dash of dark humor, and Karloff's iconic, menacing presence—making it a cult favorite for fans of vintage crime dramas and larger-than-life villains.