Fast Company (1938)

In the shadowy world of rare book dealing, Joel Sloane is a beacon of both knowledge and justice. As a part-time detective, he uncovers lost or stolen literary gems, returning them to their rightful owners for a handsome reward. But his latest case is a labyrinth of deceit and danger. Otto Brockler, a fellow dealer with a penchant for shady dealings, has been brutally murdered. The suspects are as numerous as they are intriguing. There's Ned, a man wronged by Otto and sent to prison to secure a hefty insurance payout and to distance him from Leah, a woman ensnared in a web of love and lies. Leah herself, torn between her affection for Ned and entangled in Otto's dark machinations. Elias, another enigmatic figure who deals in stolen and forged books, lurking quietly in the shadows. Sydney, a maestro of forgery whose creations are dangerously indistinguishable from the real deal. And Julia, Otto's secretary, whose lavish lifestyle belies her modest salary. Navigating this maze of complex relationships and hidden motives, Joel must unmask the murderer before he himself becomes the next casualty in this deadly game of greed and deception. His love for rare books and his knack for solving mysteries will be put to the ultimate test in this enthralling tale of deceit, betrayal, and murder.

Fast Company is a comedy movie featuring Melvyn Douglas.

Fast Company is currently streaming on DIRECTV and TCM.