Shadow of the Thin Man (1941)

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) released Shadow of the Thin Man (1941) in November 1941. One of the later Thin Man films (affiliate link), the film contains interesting vignettes for wrestling fans.

Nick Charles, played by William Powell, is pulled into a state investigation of a local gambling ring. Two local wrestling promoters run the gambling ring, which is art imitating life if you are familiar with professional wrestling history.

Director W.S. Van Dyke filmed a scene at the local wrestling card, where Nick takes his wife Nora, played by Myrna Loy. Nora often assists Nick in his investigations while providing comedic bits throughout the film.

The wrestling action soon captures Nora’s attention. Caught up in the action, Nora begins putting Nick in position for a flying mare but realizes what she is doing and lets Nick go.

Tor Johnson, the Swedish Angel, plays wrestler Jack the Ripper. Wrestling fans will notice that Johnson has a full head of hair. During his professional wrestling career and later in his film career, Johnson shaved his head bald.

Wee Willie Davis and Hardboiled Haggerty also have bit parts in the film which runs about 90 minutes. Despite being one of the later films in the series. the film is another entertaining entry into the series. You will not be disappointed in the film.

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