A lot happens in this fast-paced thriller from 1953, apparently condensed down from a popular TV series which may go some way in explaining the lightning-fast plotting. The storyline involves a respected surgeon who is waylaid one night and paid to perform an operation on a mysteriously ill old man. The next day it soon transpires that his actions were the part of some nefarious criminal plan. He learns that the criminal gang haven't finished with him yet, so with the police hot on his tail he must both prove his innocence and bring the criminal plot to a close.
It's familiar stuff indeed, but OPERATION DIPLOMAT works thanks to the above-average execution. The use of Nettlefold Studios is done in such a way as to make this look like a respectably-budgeted film, even if it wasn't. There are murders a-plenty here, alongside some well-directed action from TOWERING INFERNO director John Guillerman; a rooftop chase is a particular standout. I love the choice of lead in this one, the incredibly tall and impossibly gaunt Guy Rolfe, an actor who was to finish his career making PUPPET MASTER sequels for Charles Band in America but who acquits himself very well here. The supporting cast has also been well picked, with the lovely Patricia Dainton never failing to disappoint and Ballard Berkely having fun as one of his stock detective characters. A youthful Anton Diffring appears too, and I spotted a cameo from Desmond Llewellyn in the closing scenes.
It's familiar stuff indeed, but OPERATION DIPLOMAT works thanks to the above-average execution. The use of Nettlefold Studios is done in such a way as to make this look like a respectably-budgeted film, even if it wasn't. There are murders a-plenty here, alongside some well-directed action from TOWERING INFERNO director John Guillerman; a rooftop chase is a particular standout. I love the choice of lead in this one, the incredibly tall and impossibly gaunt Guy Rolfe, an actor who was to finish his career making PUPPET MASTER sequels for Charles Band in America but who acquits himself very well here. The supporting cast has also been well picked, with the lovely Patricia Dainton never failing to disappoint and Ballard Berkely having fun as one of his stock detective characters. A youthful Anton Diffring appears too, and I spotted a cameo from Desmond Llewellyn in the closing scenes.