Though visually the sets and scenery give one a good color idea of what the Hollywood look of the mid 1930's was like, the character's, acting, storyline and believability turn this picture into a horribly fictionalized version of the book "Hot Toddy" which it is supposedly based on. Loni Anderson reprises her Jayne Mansfield look and at 45 years old is trying to pass off as a 29 year old. Her resemblance to Thelma Todd is zero.
The business of Thelma just wanted to be loved and kissed goodnight. Gag. Her affiliation with Lucky Luciano has always been in question and that scene of the drive by shooting ending with a passionate kiss is ridiculous. Her ex-husband Pat Di Cicco was rumored to have worked for Luciano but in what capacity is not clear. She was most likely murdered and it probably had to do with the 3rd floor of her restaurant that she was not going to allow to be turned into an illegal casino and that she made the threat of going to the D. A. and exposing the underworld infiltration that was going on to the wrong person. So much artistic license is taken that those responsible for this wreck should have their licenses taken away. The mystery of her death will never be solved (Though there is a so called author that claims he has solved it, yeah right). Roland West was a milquetoast, namby pamby puff that was only capable of murdering a movie. Pat Di Cicco probably knew more than he ever divulged and is a a good candidate for homicide given his reputation for physical abuse and violence. Accidental suicide? Thelma was too intelligent to run an engine in a closed garage. If she had walked the distance to the garage as suggested, her shoes would have been badly scuffed and the cold ocean breeze would have disheveled her hair and appearance. The scene in this movie where she is ambushed outside of her apartment entrance is plausible. I highly recommend that you read the book "Hot Toddy", take it with a grain of salt and form your own opinion. Also, watch some of Thelma Todd's movies so you have an idea of how she looked and what she was like. Wait, an epiphany!!! Loni Anderson murdered her, on the screen!
