Philo Vance Lost Films Collection and similar items

Philo Vance was the first private detective of the sound era. He appeared in thirteen films between 1929 and 1947. Vance was immensely popular in books, movies, and on the radio. He was portrayed as a stylish, even foppish dandy; he was what many would call a dilettante, but the designation does him an injustice. He was a man of unusual culture and brilliance. Three radio drama series were created with Philo Vance as the title character. The first series, broadcast by NBC in 1945, starred José Ferrer. A summer replacement series in 1946 starred John Emery as Vance. The best-known series (and the one of which most episodes survived) ran from 1948 to 1950 in syndication and starred Jackson Beck. Thankfully, the radio series uses only the name, and makes Philo a pretty normal, though very intelligent and extremely courteous gumshoe. It is also available in our Store. This collection includes eight rare films starring William Powell, Warren William, William Wright, and Alan Curtis. The Canary Murder Case (1929) The Green Murder Case (1929) The Benson Murder Case (1930) The Kennel Murder Case (1930) The Gracie Allen Murder Case (1939) Philo Vance Returns (1947) Philo Vance's Gamble (1947) Philo Vance's Secret Mission (1947)