The Penguin Pool Murder (1932)

This is the first of the series of Hildegard Withers mysteries. It is very well done and enjoyable for so early a movie. Edna Mae Oliver (the best of the actresses to play the role) is Hildegard, and James Gleason is Inspector Piper. The chemistry between these two is really outstanding, as both were grouchy personalities, forever sniping at each other.

While conducting her students on a tour, Hildegard spots a dead body in the penguin pool. Thus starts the usual round of building suspects and evidence, with Gleason charging ahead and Hildy having to bring him up short time and again with something he missed. There is a surprise ending that has nothing to do with the mystery.

Oliver as Hildegard quickly became one of my wife's favorite portrayals.




Edna Mae Oliver


James Gleason