Backdrop image for movie Emil and the Detectives

Emil and the Detectives (1935)

Erich Kästner’s beloved novel has been adapted for film or television six times since its publication in 1929; this 1935 British version was the first in English. Believed lost for decades, it was recently rediscovered by the BFI and has now been restored. The film moves the action from Berlin to London, where Emil goes to stay with his grandmother and cousin. Thereafter, the tale of Emil’s adventures with a gang of streetwise London children faithfully follows the original plot.

  • Comedy
  • Crime

Top billed cast

  • Photo of John WilliamsJohn WilliamsEmil
  • Photo of George HayesGeorge HayesThe Man in The Boeler Hat
  • Photo of Mary GlynneMary GlynneMrs. Blake
  • Photo of Clare GreetClare GreetGrandma
  • Photo of George MerrittGeorge MerrittPC
  • Photo of Marion FosterMarion FosterPolly
  • Photo of Donald PittmanDonald PittmanGussy
  • Photo of John SingerJohn SingerThesday
  • Photo of Derek BlomfieldDerek BlomfieldJerry
  • Photo of Robert RiettiRobert RiettiProfessor

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