Alarm in the Circus" (1961) is a British crime film, part of the Edgar Wallace Mysteries series. These were hour-long black and white films produced at Merton Park Studios. Here's a summary and a detailed story based on the typical structure and themes of these films:
Summary:
"Alarm in the Circus" revolves around a series of mysterious accidents and deaths plaguing a traveling circus. When a skeptical insurance investigator is sent to look into the claims, he uncovers a web of jealousy, hidden resentments, and potentially a sinister plot to sabotage the show and harm its performers. As he delves deeper into the lives of the circus folk, he must unravel the truth behind the "accidents" before more lives are put in danger, ultimately exposing the culprit and their motives.
Detailed Story:
The film opens with the vibrant yet somewhat chaotic atmosphere of a traveling circus as it sets up in a new town. However, beneath the colorful facade of clowns, acrobats, and animal trainers, a sense of unease is brewing. A series of unfortunate "accidents" have occurred recently, raising concerns about the safety of the performers and the financial stability of the circus.
The circus owner, a stressed and worried man named possibly Mr. Henderson or a similar authoritative figure, is facing mounting insurance claims due to these incidents. The insurance company, suspecting foul play rather than mere bad luck, decides to send in one of their most astute investigators, a pragmatic and observant man often named Mr. Fenton or Inspector Grey (common names for protagonists in this series).
Mr. Fenton arrives at the circus with a skeptical eye. He begins his investigation by interviewing the various members of the circus troupe. These interviews reveal a complex network of relationships, rivalries, and hidden tensions. The suspects could include:
- The disgruntled former performer: Perhaps someone who was injured or fired and holds a grudge against the circus or a specific individual.
- The jealous rival: Two performers vying for the spotlight or the affections of another member of the circus. This could be between acrobats, animal trainers, or even clowns.
- The ambitious newcomer: Someone eager to climb the ranks and willing to eliminate the competition.
- The performer with a secret: Someone whose past could be catching up with them, and the "accidents" might be related to silencing them or a form of revenge.
- A member of the management: Possibly someone with financial troubles who might be trying to sabotage the circus for insurance money.
As Mr. Fenton delves deeper, the "accidents" escalate, becoming more dangerous and less easily dismissed as mere mishaps. A high-wire act might almost end in tragedy, a cage door might mysteriously open, endangering a lion tamer, or a piece of equipment might fail at a crucial moment. Each incident raises the stakes and intensifies the suspicion that someone is deliberately trying to cause harm.
Mr. Fenton meticulously observes the performers during their acts and behind the scenes. He looks for inconsistencies in their stories, notes any unusual behavior, and tries to understand the intricate dynamics of the circus community. He might be assisted by a local police officer, who provides local knowledge and resources.
The film often features suspenseful sequences where the investigator narrowly avoids danger himself, highlighting the perilous environment of the circus and the cunning of the perpetrator. There might be red herrings and misleading clues to keep the audience guessing.
The investigation could lead Mr. Fenton to examine financial records, past incidents, and personal histories of the circus members. He might uncover secret relationships, hidden debts, or long-standing feuds that provide potential motives for the sabotage.
The climax of the film typically occurs during a performance. The saboteur might attempt their most daring act yet, aiming to cause serious harm or even death. Mr. Fenton, having pieced together the clues, will likely be present, anticipating the culprit's move.
A dramatic confrontation ensues, often involving the unique setting of the circus – perhaps a chase through the big top, a struggle near the animal cages, or a tense standoff during a dangerous act. The culprit is finally revealed, their motives exposed, which could range from professional jealousy and romantic rivalry to financial gain or revenge.
In the resolution, the perpetrator is apprehended, and the safety and stability of the circus are restored. Mr. Fenton, having successfully solved the "alarms" in the circus, likely departs, leaving the circus troupe to hopefully enjoy a less eventful run in their next town. The film concludes with a sense of order being brought back to the chaotic yet captivating world of the circus.
