Breakaway | |
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![]() Original British quad poster | |
Directed by | Henry Cass |
Written by | Norman Hudis |
Based on | an original story by Manning O'Brine |
Produced by | Robert S. Baker Monty Berman |
Starring | Tom Conway Michael Balfour Honor Blackman Brian Worth |
Cinematography | Monty Berman |
Edited by | Anne Barker |
Music by | Stanley Black Ivor Slaney |
Production company | Cipa |
Distributed by | RKO Radio Pictures (UK) |
Release date |
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Running time | 72 minutes |
Country | United Kingdom |
Language | English |
Breakaway is a 1955 British second feature ('B') [1] thriller film directed by Henry Cass and starring Tom Conway, Michael Balfour and Honor Blackman. [2] [3] It was written by Norman Hudis based on a story by Manning O'Brine. [4] 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).
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.
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. [5]
Kine Weekly wrote: "Stoutly carpentered story, breezy light relief, pleasing romantic touches, hearty climax and quota ticket." [6]
Today's Cinema called the film "slickly manufactured crime entertainment." [7]
TV Guide called it an "absurd whodunit". [8]
In British Sound Films: The Studio Years 1928–1959 David Quinlan rated the film as "mediocre", writing: "Tedious thriller with regulation car chases." [9]