The Last Page

The Last Page
File:The Last Page FilmPoster.jpeg Theatrical release poster
Directed by	Terence Fisher
Produced by	Anthony Hinds
Written by	James Hadley Chase (play) Frederick Knott
Starring	George Brent Marguerite Chapman Diana Dors
Music by	Frank Spencer
Cinematography	Walter J. Harvey
Edited by	Maurice Rootes
Production company	Hammer Film Productions
Distributed by	Lippert Pictures (USA) Exclusive Films (UK)
Release dates	1952
Running time	84 minutes
Country	United Kingdom
Language	English

The Last Page, released in the United States as Man Bait, is a 1952 British film noir produced by Hammer Film Productions starring George Brent, Marguerite Chapman and Diana Dors.

The film is notable for being the first Hammer film directed by Terence Fisher, who later played a critical role in the creation of the company's immensely successful horror film cycle.

The Last Page is also notable for being the first film made under a four-year production and distribution contract between Hammer and the US film distribution company Lippert Pictures. As in all of these films, the leading role was played by a well-known Hollywood actor supplied by Lippert to ensure familiarity with American audiences.

Plot

Bookstore manager John Harman (Brent) reprimands his attractive young clerk Ruby Bruce (Dors) for being late to work. Later the same day Ruby catches small-time crook Jeff Hart (Reynolds) trying to steal a rare book. Instead of turning him in she accepts a date with him. When Harman later tries to kiss Ruby she tells Hart who forces Ruby to blackmail Harman. When he refuses to pay off, Jeff tells Ruby to write a letter to Harman's sick wife, which causes her death from a heart attack. Dazed by the tragedy, Harman gives Ruby 300 pounds when she renews her demands. Jeff catches Ruby hiding part of the money, kills her and hides her body in a packing case. Harman discovers Ruby's body and, thinking he will be accused, flees in panic. He enlists the help of his secretary Stella (Chapman) who helps him hunt for clues. When Stella stumbles on Hart alone she is nearly killed by him but Harman arrives in time to save her. The police arrest Hart.

Cast

• George Brent as John Harman
• Marguerite Chapman as Stella Tracy
• Diana Dors as Ruby Bruce
• Meredith Edwards as Inspector Dale
• Harry Fowler as Joe, clerk
• Raymond Huntley as Clive Oliver
• Peter Reynolds as Jeffrey Hart
• Eleanor Summerfield as Vi
• Nelly Arno as Miss Rossetti

External links

• The Last Page at IMDb
• The Last Page at AllMovie

Template:Hammer Film Productions films