this be a very unusual film in that the star with the top billing doesn not appear literally until half way in . nevertheless i be engage by the hook of the phantom lady . curtis and though competent a the falsely accuse scott henderson and look a little tough to be be sympathetic towards ( perhaps he should have shave his moustache ) and his behavior when he first come home should have convince the cop at least to some degree of his innocence . while another commentator have a problem with franchot tone a jack marlowe i find his portrayal of the character to be impressively complex . he be no stock villain . superb character actor elisha cook jr. be again in top form a the little man with big ambition . his drumming in the musical number add a welcome touch of eroticism . this movie however be carry by the very capable and comely ella raines a the devote would be lover of henderson and carol richmond . she definitely have talent and her screen presence be in the tradition of lauren bacall . this be the first of her work i have see and i be definitely inclined to see her other role . the rest of the support cast be also more than competent . all in all a very satisfying film noir mystery which when view today fully convey the dark and complex urban world it be intend to . recommend and positive .