Houdini
By the early 1900s, the extraordinary Houdini earned an international reputation for his theatrical tricks and daring feats of extrication from shackles, ropes, handcuffs and... Scotland Yard's jails.
Critics Sentiment
Harry escapes underwater box in frozen Detroit River after chain breaks
Harry works at the locksmith factory while Bess wants stability
The film jumps from the slow factory work sequence to the exciting straitjacket escape at the Magician Society dinner.
The film maintains solid entertainment value throughout with peaks during the major escape sequences, particularly the Scotland Yard and Detroit River scenes. Critics consistently praised Curtis and Leigh's chemistry and the colorful period atmosphere, though many noted the script's historical inaccuracies and rushed pacing. The sentiment dips during slower character development moments but rebounds strongly during the spectacular escape sequences that showcase Curtis's energetic performance.
Full cast
Tony Curtis
Harry Houdini
Janet Leigh
Bess Houdini
Torin Thatcher
Otto
Angela Clarke
Harry's Mother
Stefan Schnabel
German Prosecuting Attorney
Ian Wolfe
Malue
Sig Ruman
Schultz
Michael Pate
Dooley
Connie Gilchrist
Mrs. Shultz
Malcolm Lee Beggs
British Jail Warden
Frank Orth
Mr. Hunter
Barry Bernard
Insp. Marlick
Douglas Spencer
Simms
Leslie Sketchley
Audience Member
Joanne Gilbert
Girl
Daniel de Jonghe
Desk Clerk (uncredited)
Charles Fogel
Official (uncredited)
Joe Gilbert
Restaurant Patron (uncredited)
Crew
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