The Echo Murders

David Farrer was a reliable leading man of the 40s and 50s but even he can do little to rescue this sorry mess.It is a substandard rip off of Sherlock Holmes with a plot so confusing it is difficult to understand precisely what is happening.So many details of Holmes are shamelessly utilised such as his Baker Street address,his use of disguises and ability to get out of numerous tight corners.however this film is so cheap that it spares every expense.Thus when Farrer is caught for the umpteenth time by the master criminal he has to explain his previous escape because we don't actually see it.The action is laughable with punches clearly missing their mark by a mile.Some of the cave settings look more like a borrowed Santas Grotto.Even a young,up and coming Dennis Price can do little with his role.So if you are looking for a decent thriller give this one a miss.