Called Back is a 1933 British crime film directed by Reginald Denham and Jack Harris and starring Franklin Dyall, Lester Matthews and Dorothy Boyd. It was based on Hugh Conway's 1883 novel of the same title, and was a quota quickie made at Twickenham Studios.
Contents
Preservation status
The British Film Institute National Archive holds a collection of ephemera and stills but no film or video materials.
Plot
Wealthy young Englishman Gilbert Vaughan, recovering from an operation to restore his sight after blindness, meets and marries Pauline March. Knowing that there is something mysterious in her past, he neverthelss abides by the wishes of her uncle, Dr. Manuel, not to investigate. When Manuel's associate Santos Macari visits Gilbert and Pauline and gives a clue to the mystery, Gilbert travels to Siberia, where Manuel has been condemned to death by firing squad for counter-revolutionary activities, to finally get the truth from him.
Cast
Franklin Dyall as Dr. Jose Manuel
Lester Matthews as Gilbert Vaughan
Dorothy Boyd as Pauline March
Alexander Sarner as Santos Macari
Anthony Ireland as Anthony March
Francis L. Sullivan as Kaledin
Ian Fleming as Dr. Carter
Margaret Emden as Priscilla
Geoffrey Goodheart as Ivan
Reception
Kine Weekly wrote: "Crime drama a little fantastic an in theme, competently portrayed by a cast of established stage favourites. The story is told partly in retrospect, and the device secures adequate suspense which in torn stimulates interest and leads to holding sitaations."
The Daily Film Renter wrote: "Rather unconvincing narrative redeemed by powerful acting of leading players. Uneven direction detracts from maximum effect of gripping situations, Photography and sound are excellent. Will be acceptable to not too critical audiences."
Picture Show wrote: "Somewhat far-fetched crime drama, well acted, if not always convincing."