Is Dangerous to Know Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Dangerous to Know is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 70 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Dangerous to Know Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1938, Dangerous to Know emerges as a significant entry in the Crime, Drama, Mystery domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Racketeer Steve Recka, art patron and political power-maker, rules his town and Madame Lan Ying, his beautiful friend and hostess (read:mistress), with an iron hand. Unlike standard genre fare, Dangerous to Know attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Dangerous to Know features a noteworthy lineup led by Gail Patrick . Supported by the likes of Akim Tamiroff and Anna May Wong , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Dangerous to Know (1938) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.1/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Dangerous to Know Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Dangerous to Know is a Crime, Drama, Mystery film that delves into the criminal underworld with gritty realism and moral complexity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Dangerous to Know Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Dangerous to Know concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to crime resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Dangerous to Know reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Dangerous to Know Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Dangerous to Know incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime, drama, mystery film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Dangerous to Know adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Dangerous to Know?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Crime films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want solid genre entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Dangerous to Know
- Gail Patrick – Margaret Van Kase
- Akim Tamiroff – Stephen Recka
- Anna May Wong – Madame Lan Ying
- Lloyd Nolan – Inspector Brandon
- Roscoe Karns – Duncan
Top Highlights
Gail PatrickMargaret Van Kase
Akim TamiroffStephen Recka
Anna May WongMadame Lan Ying
Lloyd NolanInspector Brandon
Roscoe KarnsDuncan
Porter HallMayor Bradley
Anthony QuinnNicolai Kusoff
Harvey StephensPhilip Easton
Barlowe BorlandButler
Hedda HopperMrs. Carson
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Dangerous to Know is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.1/10, and global collection metrics, Dangerous to Know stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1938 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dangerous to Know movie hit or flop?
Dangerous to Know has received mixed reviews with a 6.1/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Dangerous to Know worth watching?
Dangerous to Know is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Crime, Drama, Mystery movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Dangerous to Know online?
Dangerous to Know may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
