It's 1861. President-Elect Abraham Lincoln is traveling to Washington for his inauguration. New York Police Sergeant John Kennedy (Dick Powell) has information on an assassination attempt but his superior refuses to believe it. Kennedy resigns and boards the train to Washington.
My first impression is that there are many things that look more like 1950's than 1860's. Obviously, the big dresses and soldiers look authentic but something is off. The lighting is definitely electric but I can't expect whale oil lights. Maybe it's the men's suits especially Kennedy's. Other than his chain, it looks like a 1950's business suit. It's a minor thing but it throws me out of the time period. I also have a tough time following the various characters. Powell doesn't have the feel of a hardened police investigator. Despite these issues, the movie does have a good mystery feel and has an intriguing premise.
My first impression is that there are many things that look more like 1950's than 1860's. Obviously, the big dresses and soldiers look authentic but something is off. The lighting is definitely electric but I can't expect whale oil lights. Maybe it's the men's suits especially Kennedy's. Other than his chain, it looks like a 1950's business suit. It's a minor thing but it throws me out of the time period. I also have a tough time following the various characters. Powell doesn't have the feel of a hardened police investigator. Despite these issues, the movie does have a good mystery feel and has an intriguing premise.