Beyond Charlie Chan: The Principal Chan Actors in Non-Chan, 12, 2009 (Contributed by Steven Fredrick)
Beyond Charlie Chan: The Principal Chan Actors in Non-Chan Movies
By Steven Fredrick, with assistance from Rush Glick
As any movie buff can tell you, the leading actors in Charlie Chan films appeared in other films besides the classic Chan movies. Below, please find a list of these films featuring the principal Chan actors. These actors, in alphabetical order, include Benson Fong, Keye Luke, Mantan Moreland, Warner Oland, Sidney Toler, Roland Winters, and Victor Sen Yung.
In compiling this list of films and video programs, I have tried to select interesting titles that will appeal to the Charlie Chan film enthusiast. This is not a listing of every movie and TV show that features a Chan player. There are other sources for actor’s credits, such as www.imdb.com.
This list includes titles currently available on video (DVD or VHS). One may watch these films on Turner Classic Movies and/or purchase DVD copies from various video sources. For this article, I have included reference sources, DVD collections, video companies, and current DVD prices. The prices are subject to change.
In researching this project, I have discovered that a number of titles are only available in the VHS format. With the exception of two important titles, I have not included VHS releases in this list.
The use of the an asterisk* indicates that the title is in public domain.
It is my hope that this list be a helpful resource tool for building one’s Charlie Chan video library.
See you at the movies!
BENSON FONG
1. “Destination Tokyo” (December 1943 Warner Brothers) Cary Grant and John Garfield co-star in this suspenseful World War II adventure. The cast includes Alan Hale and Benson Fong, who is credited as “Japanese.” Source: Turner Classic Movie Library (TCM). DVD: Warner Home Video, 2004. $8.87 at www.deepdiscount.com.
2. “Up in Arms” (March 1944 RKO) Danny Kaye’s first feature film. The cast includes Dinah Shore, Margaret Dumont, Elisha Cook, Jr., and Benson Fong as a Japanese entry. Source: TCM Library. DVD: N/A.
3. “Dragon Seed” (August 1944 MGM) Based on the novel by Pearl Buck, this films stars several prominent Caucasian actors portraying Asian characters. The cast includes Katharine Hepburn, Walter Huston, Turhan Bey, Agnes Moorehead, J. Carrol Naish, and Benson Fong (in an uncredited role). Source: TCM Library. DVD: One of six titles in The Katharine Hepburn Collection from Warner Home Video, 2007. Price: $42.79 at www.deepdiscount.com.
4. “Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo” (November 1944 MGM) It’s the Doolittle Raid on Japan in this exciting World War II drama starring Van Johnson, Robert Walker, and Spencer Tracy. The cast includes Robert Mitchum and Benson Fong as young Dr. Chung. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Warner Home Video, 2006. Price: $13.49 at www.deepdiscount.com.
5. “The Keys of the Kingdom” (December 1944 Twentieth Century-Fox) Based on the A. J. Cronin novel, the cast includes Gregory Peck, Vincent Price, Roddy McDowall, and Benson Fong. Fong considered his role in this film to be one of his favorites. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, 2006. Price: $9.65 at www.deepdiscount.com.
6. “Back to Bataan” (May 1945 RKO) A World War II drama starring John Wayne and Anthony Quinn. The cast includes Philip Ahn [Remember Ahn as Charlie Chan’s son-in-law in “Charlie Chan in Honolulu”?] and Benson Fong as a Japanese officer making a broadcast. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Warner Home Video, 2006. Price: $9.05 at www.deepdiscount.com.
7. “His Majesty O’Keefe” (January 1954 Warner Brothers) A South-Seas adventure starring Burt Lancaster. The cast includes Philip Ahn and Benson Fong. One of several titles in Burt Lancaster, The Signature Collection, 2007. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Warner Home Video, 2007. Price: separate title, $13.49 at www.deepdiscount.com.
8. “Conquest of Space” (April 1955 Paramount) From George Pal, the award-winning producer of “The War of the Worlds,” comes Hollywood’s first serious attempt to reach Mars. The cast in this Sci-Fi movie includes Ross Martin (in his film debut) and Benson Fong as Imoto. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2004. Price: $12.74 at www.oldies.com.
9. “Have Gun-Will Travel” (1957-63 CBS-TV) A classic TV western starring Richard Boone as Paladin. From the third season, Benson Fong plays an Asian detective in episode #25: “The Hatchet Man” (3/05/60). The cast includes Philip Ahn. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Have Gun-Will Travel, The Complete Third Season, 2006. Price: $27.89 at www.deepdiscount.com.
10. “Bonanza” (1959-1973 NBC-TV) Benson Fong appears in two episodes of this classic TV western. Several episodes are in public domain. Various volumes are available. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Alpha Video; www.oldies.com, www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com. Prices: various, low range.
11. “Flower Drum Song” (November 1961 Universal) This film version of the Rodgers & Hammerstein Broadway musical features an all-Asian cast. Benson Fong plays Master Wang, a traditional Chinese father, living with his Americanized children. This was Fong’s other favorite film. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Universal, 2006. Price: $12.74 at www.oldies.com. Price: $9.87 at www.deepdiscount.com.
12. “Girls, Girls, Girls” (November 1962 Paramount) Elvis Presley is in Hawaii. The cast includes Stella Stevens, and Benson Fong as Kin Yung. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Paramount, 2003. Price: $6.80 at www.deepdiscount.com.
13. “Our Man Flint” (January 1966 Twentieth Century-Fox) James Coburn stars in this James Bond spoof. The cast includes Benson Fong. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Ultimate Flint Collection from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, 2006. Price: $13.77 at www.deepdiscount.com.
14. “I Spy” (1965-68 NBC-TV) The TV spy series co-starring Robert Culp and Bill Cosby. From the third season, Benson Fong and Philip Ahn appear in episode #13: “An American Empress” (12/25/67). Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: I Spy, The Third Season, from Image Entertainment, 2008. Price: $13.39 at www.deepdiscount.com.
15. “The Love Bug” (March 1969 Disney) A true Disney classic starring Herbie, a Volkswagon with human qualities. The cast includes Dean Jones, Michele Lee, Buddy Hackett, Joe Flynn, and Benson Fong as Mr. Wu. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Walt Disney Home Entertainment, 2003. Price: $8.55 at www.deepdiscount.com.
16. “Bewitched” (1964-72 ABC-TV) Popular TV sitcom starring Elizabeth Montgomery as the suburban witch. From Season Eight, Benson Fong appears in episode #25: “Sam’s Witchcraft Blows a Fuse” (3/18/72). Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Bewitched-The Complete Eighth Season from Sony Home Video, 2009. Price: $27.89 at www.deepdiscount.com.
17. “Charley Varrick” (October 1973 Universal) Walter Matthau stars in this thriller. The cast includes Benson Fong as Honest John. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Universal, 2004. Price: $7.10 at www.deepdiscount.com.
18. “The Strongest Man in the World” (February 1975 Disney) Kurt Russell stars in this family adventure. The cast includes Joe Flynn, Eve Arden, Cesar Romero, Phil Silvers, and Benson Fong as Ah Fong. About 55-minute mark into the film, Fong shares a nice scene with Romero. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Walt Disney Home Entertainment, 2004. Price: $9.51 at www.deepdiscount.com.
19. “S.O.B.” (July 1981 Lorimar) William Holden and Julie Andrews star in this comedy directed by Blake Edwards. The cast includes Robert Preston, Robert Vaughn, Shelley Winters, and Benson Fong as the Chef. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Warner Home Video, 2002. Price: $15.23 at www.deepdiscount.com.
KEYE LUKE
1. “The Good Earth” (August 1937 MGM) Adaptation of Pearl Buck’s mammoth novel. A telling story of greed ruining the lives of a simple Chinese farming couple. The cast includes Paul Muni, Luise Rainer, Harold Huber (Huber appeared in several Chan films, usually playing a police officer.), and Keye Luke as an elder son. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Warner Home Video, 2006. Price: $14.03 at www.deepdiscount.com.
2. “Phantom of Chinatown” (November 1940 Monogram) In the final entry in this mystery series, Keye Luke plays Mr. Wong. Unfortunately, Luke is miscast in the role that was originated by Boris Karloff. * Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2003. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com. Price: $5.99 at www.deepdiscount.com. Also available in The Mr. Wong Collection. Price: $10.80 at www.deepdiscount.com.
3. “Bowery Blitzkrieg” (August 1941 Monogram) In this East Side Kids comedy, Keye Luke plays Clancy, a pool hall manager. In an early scene, Leo Gorcey and the gang ad-lib so much, it leaves Luke at a loss. Watch for Luke’s reactions to the gang. Beware, this is a wartime propaganda film. By contemporary standards, a few politically incorrect comments are heard in this film. * Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2002. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
4. “Let’s Go Collegiate” (September 1941 Monogram) In this comedy, Keye Luke plays the part of Buck Wing. [Sounds like a character from a Chinese version of “Midnight Cowboy.”] Appearing with Luke is a Chan series regular, Mantan Moreland. * Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2004. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
5. “Mr. and Mrs. North” (January 1942 MGM) In this comedy-mystery, Keye Luke plays a supporting character to comedienne Gracie Allen. Luke, wearing glasses, plays Kumi, the Japanese houseboy. He speaks with a broken English accent. This is the only teaming of Luke and Allen. George Burns had nothing to worry about. The comedy of Gracie Allen is an acquired taste. Source: TCM Library. DVD: N/A.
6. “Dr. Gillespie’s New Assistant” (November 1942 MGM) This is Keye Luke’s first, and best, appearance in this dramatic series starring Lionel Barrymore. Luke plays Dr. Lee Wong Howe, a young intern. Other titles in this series that feature Luke include “Dr. Gillespie’s Criminal Case” (1943), “Three Men in White” (1944), “Between Two Women” (1945), and “Dark Delusion” (1947). Source: TCM Library. DVD: N/A.
7. “Andy Hardy’s Blonde Trouble” (May 1944 MGM) A popular family movie series starring Mickey Rooney. Crossing over from the “Dr. Gillespie” series, Keye Luke appears in this film as Dr. Lee Wong Howe. Source: TCM Library. DVD: N/A.
8. “Secret Agent X-9” (July 1945 Universal) Lloyd Bridges and Keye Luke team up in this World War II action serial. A total of 13 cliff-hanging chapters. Also in the cast is Benson Fong. Source: VCI, 2003; www.imdb.com. DVD: $10.80 at www.deepdiscount.com.
9. “The Adventures of Fu Manchu” (9/10/56) Starring Glen Gordon in this TV series. Keye Luke appears in “The Golden God of Dr. Fu Manchu,” the first episode on this DVD. As an older actor, Luke plays a supporting role. There is little action in this series. * Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2003. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
10. “Around the World in 80 Days” (October 1956 United Artists) This epic adventure stars David Niven and an all-star cast of Hollywood’s most popular actors. Among the uncredited actors are Keye Luke (Imdb.com website misidentified Luke as the old man at Yokohama Travel Office), Philip Ahn, and Al Kikume (He played a Hawaiian cop in several Charlie Chan films). In the Hong Kong scene, it’s Philip Ahn as the old Chinese man that David Niven is having a conversation with. It is not Keye Luke. Any clues leading to locating Luke in this film are greatly appreciated. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Warner Home Video, 2004. Price: $23.18 at www.oldies.com. Price: $12.80 at www.deepdiscount.com.
11. “Jonny Quest” (1964-65 ABC-TV), “The Quetong Missile Mystery” (2/11/65 Hanna-Barbera). In episode #22 of this animated TV series, Keye Luke provides the voices of three characters. Luke’s most recognizable voice is that of Commissioner Wah. Luke is uncredited in this episode. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Warner Home Video, 2004. Price: $33.98 at www.oldies.com. Price: $31.74.
12. “Jonny Quest” (1964-65 ABC-TV), “The Sea Haunt” (3/11/65 Hanna-Barbera). In episode #26, Keye Luke provides the voice of Charlie, the Chinese cook. In the final episode of this TV series, “Charlie” is a throwback to the Chinese cooks from old Hollywood films, circa 1930s-1940s. Luke’s “Charlie” calls upon his ancient ancestors to rescue him. Luke speaks a little Chinese too. He is uncredited in this episode. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Warner Home Video, 2004. Same DVD collection as listed above.
13. “The Hawaiians” (June 1970 United Artists) In the second half of James Michener’s South Seas epic drama, “Hawaii,” Keye Luke plays a respectable supporting role. The cast includes Victor Sen Yung in an uncredited role. Source: TCM Library. DVD: N/A. Fredrick’s Film Collection: 16mm print.
14. “The Amazing Chan and the Chan Clan” (1972 Hanna-Barbera) In this animated TV-series, Keye Luke provides the voice of Charlie Chan. The story involves the kids searching for clues. Chan has little to do with the mystery. One episode sums up the series. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Saturday Morning Cartoons, the 1970s, Volume One from Warner Home Video, 2009. Price: $23.18 at www.oldies.com. Price: $22.00 at www.deepdiscount.com.
15. “Kung Fu” (1972-1975 Warner Brothers) Several actors from the Charlie Chan film series appear in this popular 70s TV series starring the late David Carradine. The cast includes Keye Luke as Master Po (appearing in 44 episodes), Philip Ahn as Master Kan (appearing in 37 episodes), Victor Sen Yung as Tamo (appearing in six episodes), and Benson Fong as Li Yu (appearing in three episodes). Luke considered his role of Master Po to be his favorite performance. Source: www.imdb.com. DVDs: The Complete First Season, Warner Home Video, 2004; The Complete Second Season, WHV, 2005; and The Complete Third Season, WHV, 2005. Prices: $18.87 for each season at www.deepdiscount.com.
16. “Dead Heat” (May 1988) Treat Williams and Joe Piscopo co-star in this action-zombie “buddy film.” The cast includes Vincent Price, Darren McGavin, and Keye Luke. Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Anchor Bay, 2004. Price: $8.73 at www.oldies.com. Price: $6.10 at www.deepdiscount.com.
17. “Alice” (December 1990 MGM) Starring Mia Farrow. Directed by Woody Allen. In his final film appearance, Keye Luke plays Dr. Yang, an acupuncturist. Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: MGM Home Video, 2001. Price: $4.98 at www.oldies.com. Price: $9.39 at www.deepdiscount.com.
MANTAN MORELAND
1. “Spirit of Youth” (April 1938 Globe Pictures) Starring boxing champ Joe Lewis, PLUS the second film “Lucky Ghost” (February 1942 Dixie National). A double-bill featuring Mantan Moreland. * Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2004. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
2. “Up in the Air” (September 1940 Monogram) A Frank Darro-Mantan Moreland comedy. Some of the scenes are inappropriate by today’s standards and reflect the attitudes prevalent when the film was created. * Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2003. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
3. “You’re Out to Luck” (January 1941 Monogram) Another Frank Darro-Mantan Moreland comedy. * Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2006. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
4. “King of the Zombies” (May 1941 Monogram) Mantan Moreland as Jefferson Jackson. * Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2001. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
5. “The Gang’s All Here” (June 1941 Monogram) Another Frank Darro-Mantan Moreland comedy. Keye Luke, Chan’s Number One Son, appears in this musical-comedy. * Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2004. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
6. “Law of the Jungle” (February 1942 Monogram) Mantan Moreland and Nazi spies in African jungles. Can it get any better? * Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2003. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
7. “Tarzan’s New York Adventure” (May 1942 MGM) Starring Johnny Weissmuller (as the ape man) and Maureen O’Sullivan (as Jane). The cast includes Mantan Moreland and Johnny Sheffield as “Boy.” Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Tarzan Collection, Warner Home Video, 2004. Price: $33.40 at www.deepdiscount.com.
8. “A-Haunting We Will Go” (August 1942 Twentieth Century-Fox) Laurel & Hardy star in their second film for 20th Century-Fox. This mildly funny mystery feels more like “Charlie Chan at the Wax Museum” than a L&H comedy. The cast includes Mantan Moreland and Willie Best. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Laurel & Hardy Collection, Volume Two, from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, 2006. Price: $16.87 at www.deepdiscount.com.
9. “Cabin in the Sky” (April 1943 MGM) An All-Black musical starring Lena Horne, Eddie Anderson, Ethel Waters, Willie Best, and Mantan Moreland. Directed by Vincente Minnelli. Source: TCM Library. DVD: Warner Home Video, 2006. Price: $13.49 at www.deepdiscount.com.
10. “Hit the Ice” (July 1943 Universal) Abbott & Costello star is this wild comedy. The cast includes Mantan Moreland as the porter with shoeshoes. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Abbott & Costello, Volume Two from Universal Home Video, 2004. DVD: $59.95 at www.amazon.com.
11. “Spider Baby” (January 1968) A strange little horror film starring Lon Chaney, Jr. Co-star Mantan Moreland delivers an unforgettable performance. Due to its dark humor, this film is not for everybody. It is an acquired taste. Source: www.imdb.com / TCM Library. DVD: Image Entertainment, 1999. Price: $17.23 at www.oldies.com. Price: $13.49 at www.deepdiscount.com.
WARNER OLAND
1. “The Lightning Raider” (January 1919 Pathe) Hundreds of silent movies are considered “lost” films today. The Lost Serial Collection features rare silent films from the early part of the 20th Century. One surviving segment is a chapter from “The Lightning Raider,” originally a 15-part serial starring Pearl White. This film segment is the earliest known motion-picture footage of Warner Oland. Only 10 minutes in length, this segment shows fascinating scenes between Pearl White and Warner Oland. “The Lightning Raider” is one of several movie serials featured in this 2-disc DVD collection. Source: www.silentserials.com. DVD: Lost Serials from Hermitage Hill Media, 2008. Price: $16.29 at Tower Video.com.
2. “Riders of the Purple Sage” (March 1925 Fox) A Ranger spends his prime years tracking a sister and niece who were abducted by a crooked lawyer. Tom Mix sacrifices everything to bring Warner Oland to justice in this romantic silent classic. Based on a Zane Grey novel. Source: TCM Library. DVD: Sinister Cinema, 2008. Price: $14.99 at TCM.
3. “Don Q, Son of Zorro” (June 1925 United Artists) In this silent film, Douglas Fairbanks plays the title character. Warner Oland plays a supporting role. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: The Douglas Fairbanks Collection from Kino Video, 2004. Price: $84.96 at oldies.com. Price: $67.47 at www.deepdiscount.com. One of six movies from The Fairbanks Collection.
4. “Tell It to the Marines” (January 1927 MGM) In this silent film, Lon Chaney stars as a tough Marine Sergeant. The cast includes Warner Oland as the Chinese Gang Lord. Source: TCM Library. DVD: Not available.
5. “Old San Francisco” (September 1927 Warner Brothers) A fascinating silent film with great characters and wonderful locations. Warner Oland plays Chris Buckwell, the unscrupulous Mongol. The cast includes Anna May Wong. Source: TCM Library. DVD: Not available.
6. “The Jazz Singer” (October 1927 Warner Brothers) The landmark “talkie” starring Al Jolson. Warner Oland appears as Cantor Rabinowitz, Jolson’s father. Oland speaks one word of dialogue in this silent movie. Can you guess the word? Stop … and think about it. Source: TCM Library. DVD: Warner Home Video, 2007. Price: $33.98 at www.oldies.com. Price: $27.39 at www.deepdiscount.com.
7. “The Drums of Jeopardy” (March 1931 Tiffany) Pre-Charlie Chan, Warner Oland plays a mad scientist, named Dr. Boris Karlov. Yes, that’s the name of Oland’s character in this minor horror film. * Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2004. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
8. “Dishonored” (April 1931 Paramount) A war drama starring Marlene Dietrich as a female spy. Co-starring Warner Oland as Gen. von Hindau. Source: TCM Library. DVD: www.vintagefilmbuff.com. Price: $19.90.
9. “Daughter of the Dragon” (September 1931 Paramount) After completing production on “The Black Camel,” Warner Oland went directly to this film. Oland’s third, and final, appearance as Dr. Fu Manchu. As the daughter of Fu Manchu, this film stars the wonderful actress Anna May Wong. Source: TCM Library. DVD: http://www.vintagefilmbuff.com. Price: $17.90.
10. “Shanghai Express” (February 1932 Paramount) Starring Marlene Dietrich, Anna May Wong, and Warner Oland. This is the second teaming of Dietrich and Oland; and the third film to co-star Oland and Wong. Source: TCM Library. DVD: Universal Home Video, 2006. Price: $21.85 at www.deepdiscount.com.
11. “Mandaly” (February 1934 Warner Brothers) An engaging melodrama starring Kay Francis, Ricardo Cortez, and Warner Oland. During the golden age of Hollywood movies, no one offended Joseph I. Breen’s Censorship Office more than Jack Warner, President of Warner Brothers Studios. In Breen’s opinion, the typical Warner product was a “cheap, low-tone picture with lots of double-meaning wisecracks and no little filth.” “Mandaly,” directed by Michael Curtiz, got by him. Watch for the scene in which Ricardo Cortez sells his girlfriend, Kay Francis, to a nightclub (a.k.a. “hook shop”) owner, Warner Oland. Source: TCM Library. DVD: Not available.
12. “The Painted Veil” (November 1934 MGM) Starring Greta Garbo, Herbert Marshall, and George Bent. The cast includes Warner Oland and Keye Luke in their first film together. Luke is making his screen debut. Source: TCM Library. DVD: N/A. VHS: MGM Home Video, 1998. Price: various.
13. “Werewolf of London” (May 1935 Universal) In Tibet, Warner Oland, as Dr. Yogami, puts “the bite” on Henry Hull. And the results are somewhat hairy. DVD: The Wolf Man Legacy Collection from Universal Home Video, 2004. Price: $24.95 at oldies.com. Price: $19.79 at www.deepdiscount.com. One of several werewolf films from Universal Pictures.
14. “Shanghai” (July 1935 Paramount) Starring Loretta Young. The cast includes Warner Oland as Chinese Ambassador Lun Sing. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: www.vintagefilmbuff.com. Price: $19.90.
15. “Days of Thrills and Laughter” (March 1961 Twentieth Century-Fox) Robert Youngson produced this compilation movie featuring segments from popular silent films. Among the clips are scenes from the thrilling serial “The Lightning Raider” (1919) co-starring Pearl White and Warner Oland (as Wu Fan). “The Lightning Raider” is the third teaming of White and Oland. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: http://www.vintagefilmbuff.com. Price: $19.00.
SIDNEY TOLER
1. “Speak Easily” (August 1932 MGM) In this film, MGM created the comedy team of Buster Keaton and Jimmy Durante. Because of their different styles of comedy, this film does not jell. Sidney Toler plays the stage director in this unfunny comedy. Critics consider this film to be one of the worst movies from MGM Studios. * Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2004. Price: $3.95 at www.oldies.com.
2. “Blonde Venus” (September 1932 Paramount) The cast includes Marlene Dietrich, Herbert Marshall, Cary Grant, Dickie Moore, and Sidney Toler as Detective Wilson. A touching melodrama with that “old Hollywood” magic. Beginning at the 61-minute mark, Toler appears in two memorable scenes with Dietrich. We hear Toler speak proper English. In this film, there is no “pidgin” accent to his character. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Marlene Dietrich, The Glamour Collection from Universal, 2006. Price: $19.79 at www.deepdiscount.com.
3. “The Call of the Wild” (August 1935 United Artists) Based on the novel by Jack London, this film stars Clark Gable, Loretta Young, and Jack Oakie. The cast includes Sidney Toler. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Clark Gable Collection, Volume One, from Twentieth Century-Fox Home Entertainment, 2006. Price: $22.87 at www.deepdiscount.com.
4. “Our Relations” (October 1936 MGM) A classic comedy starring Laurel & Hardy as twins. The cast includes Sidney Toler as the Captain of SS Periwinkle. Source: TCM Library. DVD: Not available. Fredrick Film Collection: 16mm print.
5. “Double Wedding” (October 1937 MGM) A romantic comedy co-starring William Powell and Myrna Loy. The cast includes Sidney Toler. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: The Myrna Loy-William Powell Collection from Warner Home Video, 2002. Price: $28.97 at www.deepdiscount.com.
6. “King of Chinatown” (March 1939 Paramount) Starring Anna May Wong. The cast includes Sidney Toler as Dr. Chang Ling. Source: TCM Library. DVD: www.vintagefilmbuff.com. Price: $17.90.
7. “Heritage of the Desert” (June 1939 Paramount) Based on a Zane Grey novel, Sidney Toler has a supporting role in this B-Western. His character’s name is Nosey. Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2009. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
8. “A Night to Remember” (January 1943 Columbia) A sparkling comedy-mystery of the whodunit kind. The cast includes Loretta Young, Brian Aherne, Gale Sondergaard, and Sidney Toler as Inspector Hawkins. There’s a bit of Charlie Chan in Toler’s portrayal of Insp. Hawkins. Toler has a fun part in this film. Source: TCM Library. DVD: N/A.
9. “Adventures of Smilin’ Jack” (January 1943 Universal) Keye Luke and Sidney Toler co-star in this 13-part World War II propaganda serial. As a Chinese general, Toler speaks with his “Charlie Chan” accent, while Luke speaks proper English. When viewing this film, please remember that America was at war with Japan. Also in the cast is Turhan Bey. Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Two separate volumes from Alpha Video, 2004. Price: $5.95 each volume at www.oldies.com.
10. “Monsoon” (August 1943 PRC) a.k.a. “Isle of Forgotten Sins.” In this South Seas adventure, Sidney Toler plays Captain Krogan. The cast includes John Carradine and Gale Sondergaard. Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2003. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
ROLAND WINTERS
1. “13 Rue Madeleine” (January 1947 Twentieth Century-Fox) Starring James Cagney. A Pre-Charlie Chan Roland Winters appears in the uncredited role of Van Duyval. Source: http://www.imdb.com. DVD: Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, 2003. Price: $9.65 at www.deepdiscount.com.
2. “Abbott & Costello Meet the Killer, Boris Karloff” (September 1949 Universal) The title says it all. The cast includes Roland Winters. Source: http://www.imdb.com. DVD: The Best of Abbott & Costello, Volume Three, from Universal Home Video, 2004. Price: $42.23 (new), $34.56 (used) at www.amazon.com.
3. “Martin Kane, Private Eye” (1949-54 NBC-TV) Starring William Gargan as TV’s first detective. In Volume Four, Roland Winters appears in episode #36: “Murder on Ice” (1950). Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2008. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
4. “The West Point Story” (December 1950 Warner Brothers) Starring James Cagney. The cast includes Doris Day, Gordon MacRae, Alan Hale, Jr., and Roland Winters. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Warner Home Video, 2007. Price: $13.49 at www.deepdiscount.com.
5. “Robert Montgomery Presents” (1950-57 NBC-TV) From Season Four, Roland Winters appears in episode #21: “Maggie, Pack Your Bags” (1/19/53). Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Golden Age of Television, Volume 7, from Alpha Video, 2008. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
6. “Cash McCall” (January 1960 Warner Brothers) This romantic drama stars James Garner and Natalie Wood. The cast includes Nina Foch, Dean Jagger, E. G. Marshall, Otto Kruger, and Roland Winters. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: The Natalie Wood Collection from Warner Home Video, 2009. Price: $40.89 at www.deepdiscount.com.
7. “Blue Hawaii” (November 1961 Paramount) Great songs and beautiful scenery as Elvis Presley goes Hawaiian. The cast includes Angela Lansbury, Hilo Hattie, and Roland Winters as Presley’s father. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Paramount Home Video, 2000. Price: $6.80 at www.deepdiscount.com.
8. “The Addams Family” (1964-66 ABC-TV) Classic creepy TV sitcom starring Carolyn Jones and John Astin. From Season One, Roland Winters plays the Addams’ financial advisor in episode #19: “The Addams Family Splurges” (1/29/65). Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Addams Family-Volume One from MGM/Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment, 2006. Price: $19.35 at www.deepdiscount.com.
9. “Green Acres” (1965-71 CBS-TV) Classic kooky TV sitcom co-starring Eddie Albert and Eva Garbor as a sophisticated couple in rural Hooterville. From Season One, Roland Winters appears as a judge in episode #10: “Don’t Call Us, We’ll Call You” (11/17/65). Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Green Acres-The Complete First Season from MGM/UA, 2004. Price: $22.39 at www.deepdiscount.com.
10. “Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.” (1964-1969 CBS-TV) Classic TV sitcom starring Jim Nabors as the Marine from Mayberry. From Season Four, Roland Winters appears in episode #9: “The Show Must Go On” (11/03/67). Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Gomer Pyle, USMC-Fourth Season from Paramount/CBS Home Video, 2007. Price: $24.15 at www.deepdiscount.com.
11. “Green Acres” (1965-71 CBS-TV) From Season Three, Roland Winters appears in episode #25: “Oliver’s Jaded Past” (3/06/68). Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Green Acres-The Complete Third Season from MGM/UA, 2005. Price: $19.99 at www.deepdiscount.com.
12. “Bewitched” (1964-72 ABC-TV) Classic TV sitcom starring Elizabeth Montgomery as a suburban witch. From Season Four, Roland Winters appears in episode #32: “Man of the Year” (5/02/68). Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Bewitched-The Complete Fourth Season from Sony Home Video, 2006. Price: $26.87 at www.deepdiscount.com.
VICTOR SEN YUNG
1. “The Letter” (November 1940 Warner Brothers) A woman (Bette Davis) claims to have killed in self-defense, until a blackmailer turns up with incriminating evidence. The cast includes Herbert Marshall, Gale Sondergaard, and Victor Sen Yung. Yung considered his part as an attorney’s assistant to be his best performance. Source: TCM Library and www.imdb.com. DVD: Warner Home Video, 2005. Price: $15.95 at www.oldies.com. Price: $13.49 at www.deepdiscount.com.
2. “Across the Pacific” (September 1942 Warner Brothers) Humphrey Bogart stars in this World War II action-adventure. Co-starring with Bogie is Victor Sen Yung, Keye Luke, and Philip Ahn. All that’s missing is Charlie Chan. Contemporary reviews are not kind to this film. Reviewers refer to this film as racist. Please remember that at the time this film was made, Japan was an enemy of America. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Humphrey Bogart Collection, Volume Two from Warner Home Video, 2006. Price: $49.95 at www.oldies.com. Price: $28.89 at www.deepdiscount.com. One of several titles in Bogart Collection, Volume Two.
3. “The Adventures of Superman” (1952-58) George Reeves stars as the Man of Steel in this TV adventure series. In the episode “The Riddle of the Chinese Jade” (1/30/53), Victor Sen Yung plays a “bad guy.” Think Jimmy Chan gone wrong. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: The Adventures of Superman, Season One from Warner Home Video, 2005. Price: $11.98 at www.oldies.com. Price: $30.73 at www.deepdiscount.com.
4. “The Adventures of Fu Manchu” (9/03/56) Glen Gordon stars in this adventurous TV series. Victor Sen Yung appears as a TV reporter in “The Prisoner of Dr. Fu Manchu,” the last episode on this DVD. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Alpha Video, 2003. Price: Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
5. “She Demons” (January 1958) For “B” movie fans, this horror exploitation film is so bad, it’s good. Among the American castaways stranded on an island is Sammy Ching, played by Victor Sen Yung. When viewing the trailer, check out Yung’s vintage Aloha shirt. The trailer is available at Image Entertainment’s website. Just type in the title. Source: www.image-entertainment.com. DVD: Image Entertainment, 2001. Price: $6.98 at www.oldies.com.
6. “Bonanza” (1959-1973 NBC-TV) Victor Sen Yung appears in 101 episodes of this classic TV western, including the pilot. Yung plays Hop Sing, the cook. Several episodes are in public domain. Various volumes are available. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Alpha Video; www.amazon.com, www.barnesandnoble.com. Prices: various, low range.
7. “Shotgun Slade” (1959-61) Scott Brady stars as a cowboy detective in this minor TV western. In a Hop Sing-like costume, Victor Sen Yung appears in the second episode on this DVD. Interesting and different. Source: www.oldies.com. DVD: Shotgun Slade, Volume Three from Alpha Video, 2008. Price: $5.95 at www.oldies.com.
8. “Flower Drum Song” (November 1961 Universal) After years of traveling with his “Pop” to international “hot spots,” it figures that “Jimmy Chan” would end up working in a San Francisco Chinatown nightclub. This film version of the Rodgers & Hammerstein Broadway musical features an All-Asian cast. In a supporting role, Victor Sen Yung plays Frankie Wing, the nightclub M.C. Yung sings one song with a chorus line of Asian beauties. Benson Fong plays Master Wang, the elderly father. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Universal Home Video, 2006. Price: $12.74 at www.oldies.com. Price: $9.87 at www.deepdiscount.com.
9. “Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.” (1964-1969 CBS-TV) Starring Jim Nabors as the Marine from Mayberry. From Season Three, Victor Sen Yung appears in episode #18: “You Bet Your Won Ton” (1/25/67). The cast includes Billy Benedict of “Bowery Boys” fame. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.-The Complete Third Season from Paramount/CBS Home Video, 2007. Price: $20.01 at www.deepdiscount.com.
10. “Get Smart” (1965-69 NBC-TV; 1969-70 CBS-TV) The TV comedy starring Don Adams as bumbling secret agent Maxwell Smart. From Season Five, in episode #26, “I Am Curiously Yellow” (5/15/70), Victor Sen Yung plays Abe Fu Yung, a henchman to the Whip, a notorious Chinese Kaos agent. The series was created by Mel Brooks and Buck Henry. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Get Smart, Gift Set from HBO Home Video, 2008. Price: $158.75 for all five seasons, at www.deepdiscount.com.
11. “The Man With Bogart’s Face” (October 1980) Many great character actors appear in this film, which is a tribute to Humphrey Bogart’s private detective characters. The cast includes Robert Sacchi (as the Bogart look-alike), Victor Buono, Herbert Lom, Yvonne De Carlo, Mike Mazurki, George Raft, and in his last film appearance, Victor Sen Yung. For Yung’s scene, on DVD, see Chapter 11 at the 1:11:00 mark. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Image Entertainment, 2001. Price: $21.24 at www.oldies.com.
CHARLIE CHAN PARODIES AND TV PROJECTS
1. “Get Smart” (1965-69 NBC-TV; 1969-70 CBS-TV) The TV comedy starring Don Adams as bumbling secret agent Maxwell Smart. From Season One, in episode #25, “The Amazing Harry Hoo” (3/12/66), Joey Forman plays a detective, in the mould of Charlie Chan, named Harry Hoo. The series was created by Mel Brooks and Buck Henry. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Get Smart, Season One from HBO Home Video, 2008. Price: $18.87 at www.deepdiscount.com.
2. “Get Smart” (1965-70) From Season Two, in episode #8, “Hoo Done It” (11/05/66), Joey Forman returns as detective Harry Hoo. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Get Smart, Season Two from HBO Home Video, 2009. Price: $20.19 at www.deepdiscount.com.
3. “The Return of Charlie Chan” a.k.a. “Happiness is a Warm Clue” (1971 Universal TV). A pilot of a proposed TV series, this TV-movie stars Ross Martin as Charlie Chan. For one reason or another, it never got off the ground. It’s too bad because the script is true to the Chan character. Broadcast date: July 17, 1979 on ABC-TV. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: http://www.iOffer.com. Price: $7.99 + shipping.
4. “Murder By Death” (June 1976) A satire of Hollywood’s most beloved detectives. Peter Sellers as Detective Sidney Wang and Richard Narita as Willie Wang, an adopted Japanese son. Source: http://www.imdb.com. DVD: Sony, 2001. Price: $9.80 at www.deepdiscount.com.
5. “Charlie Chan and the Curse of the Dragon Queen” (February 1981) Peter Ustinov as Charlie Chan and Richard Hatch as the grandson. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Trinity Home Video, 2004. Price: $7.39 at www.deepdiscount.com.
DOCUMENTARIES WITH CHARLIE CHAN
1. “Hollywood” (February 1980 Thames Television) A fascinating documentary about the early years of American cinema. This 13-part mini-series is narrated by James Mason. Clips from “Don Juan,” with John Barrymore and Warner Oland, are included in this acclaimed series. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: N/A. VHS: HBO Home Video, 1998. Price: $24.00 (new) or $10.94 (used) at www.amazon.com.
2. “20th Century-Fox: The First 50 Years” (1/21/97 Twentieth Century-Fox) A montage of screen detectives from the films of Twentieth Century Fox: Charlie Chan, Mr. Moto, and Sherlock Holmes. Nicely done. Source: www.imdb.com. DVD: Image Entertainment, 2000. Price: $12.74 at www.oldies.com.
3. “The Slanted Screen” (2006 PBS-TV) An older generation of Asian actors complaining about Hollywood stereotypes while a younger generation of filmmakers push the envelope. Film Festival date: March 12, 2006. Source: The Slated Screen website. DVD: Is available. Price: $22.95 at www.amazon.com.
4. “Hawaii’s Chinatown” (2007) A look at various aspects of Chinatown in Honolulu. Segments include Chang Apana’s old neighborhood. Source: SF collection. DVD: Is available. Price: $12.95 at www.amazon.com.
5. “Hollywood Chinese” (2007 PBS-TV) A look at the development of Asian characters in Hollywood movies. With the introduction of Charlie Chan in the movies, the Asian image was changed from negative to positive. Broadcast date: May 2, 2008. Source: Deep Focus Productions website. DVD: Is available. Price: $29.95 at www.deepfocusproductions.com.
6. Na Mele: “Halekulani Hotel’s House Without a Key” (2/23/09 PBS-Hawaii) Hawaiian music with classic hula on the grounds of the Halekulani Hotel at Waikiki Beach. No mention of author Earl Derr Biggers. Just a brief mention of the birthplace of Charlie Chan. Source: PBS Hawaii. DVD: N/A.
_____
Historian Steven Fredrick is a Charlie Chan aficionado, living in Honolulu, Hawaii. He is the owner of Steve’s Tours and Films, featuring “The Charlie Chan Mystery Tour,” a walking theme tour of Honolulu’s Chinatown.
Return to