Girl in the Headlines (1963)

After a young woman is found shot dead in her flat, the policemen investigating uncover her sordid life and no shortage of suspects. This routine beginning leads to a compelling thriller belying the low budget. The two cops are broght to life thanks to performances by Hendry and Fraser. The home life of Hendry consists of his supportive wife Walker and blossoming teen daughter Asher. They offer a welcome contrast to the murky world he works in. Fraser has a nagging but dutiful wife who worries about his health. The supporting cast is excellent, including Villiers as a snooty actor, Moore as a shifty casino manager and Brett as a fearful lover. The investigation encompasses illegal dope peddling, a faded opera singer and her devoted servant, and a secret homosexual club. There is a second murder by stabbing before a showdown on a boat and a shootout in a cemetery. There was made as a quick B picture but is a winner to the end.