The Missing Juror (1944)

by Mark Murton

Directed by: Budd Boetticher

Synopsis: The jurors of a celebrated murder case are being bumped off one by one. Reporter Joe Keats (Jim Bannon), who found the evidence that saved the man originally convicted of the crime from the hangman’s noose, returns to the case, attempting to warn the remaining six jurors of the danger they’re in while also trying to identify the killer.

Cat Burglar (Scene Stealer): Having escorted one of the jurors safely home Keats walks off down the street where he encounters a vocal and adorable black cat. Keats addresses the cat by saying, “Hello, Black Magic!”

The Missing Juror - black cat off sidewalk
The Missing Juror - black cat off sidewalk
The Missing Juror - Joe Keats Jim Bannon looking at black cat off sidewalk
The Missing Juror - Joe Keats Jim Bannon looking at black cat off sidewalk animated gif

The cat falls into step with Keats and trots along beside him down the street.

The Missing Juror - black cat walking along sidewalk
The Missing Juror - black cat walking along sidewalk

Eventually Keats stops and bends down to address the cat. “Say are you following me? Look, Lucky, why don’t you run on along home, you’re making me nervous.” An odd edit makes it appear the scene had to be done in more than one take.

The Missing Juror - Joe Keats Jim Bannon talking to black cat

Keats boosts the cat on its way and finds himself looking at the feet of the man he believes is involved in the murders.

The Missing Juror - Joe Keats Jim Bannon talking to black cat and then pushing him away animated gif

Final Mewsings: One should appreciate having the company of a cat at night!

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