Breakaway is a 1955 British second feature ('B') thriller film directed by Henry Cass and starring Tom Conway, Michael Balfour and Honor Blackman. It was written by Norman Hudis based on a story by Manning O'Brine. A private eye is hot on the tail of a stolen secret formula and a kidnapped young woman. It is a sequel to Barbados Quest (1955).
Contents
Plot
In Berlin, Johnny Matlock obtains a secret formula from a dying scientist. On his return to London, Matlock and his girlfriend Diane are attacked by a gang who steal the formula and kidnap Diane. Private investigator Tom "Duke" Martin investigates.
Cast
Tom Conway as Tom 'Duke' Martin
Michael Balfour as Barney
Honor Blackman as Paula Grant / Paula Jackson
Brian Worth as Johnny Matlock
Bruce Seton as Webb
Freddie Mills as Pat
Alexander Gauge as MacAllister
John Horsley as Michael Matlock
Paddy Webster as Diane Grant
John Colicos as first kidnapper
Larry Taylor as second kidnapper
Arthur Lowe as Mitchell
Frederick Schrecker as Professor Dohlmann
Critical reception
The Monthly Film Bulletin wrote: "A rather confused thriller, with some familiar London locations and a number of car chases. Tom Conway and Michael Balfour give reliable performances as the private detective and his moronic partner.
Kine Weekly wrote: "Stoutly carpentered story, breezy light relief, pleasing romantic touches, hearty climax and quota ticket."
Today's Cinema called the film "slickly manufactured crime entertainment."
TV Guide called it an "absurd whodunit".
In British Sound Films: The Studio Years 1928–1959 David Quinlan rated the film as "mediocre", writing: "Tedious thriller with regulation car chases."