Penguin Pool Murder (1932)

Beneath the enchanting spectacle of a New York zoo aquarium, a startling discovery shakes the city to its core. The lifeless body of Gerald Parker, a notorious stockbroker known for his questionable business ethics, is found floating in the penguin pool, turning the tranquil haven into a chilling crime scene. The man tasked with untangling this intricate web of deceit is Inspector Oscar Piper, a seasoned detective known for his relentless pursuit of truth. From the onset, suspicion ominously looms over Parker's wife and her lover, both of whom were conveniently present during the grim discovery. The inspector's probe is further complicated by the persistent interference of Hildegarde Withers, a seemingly innocuous schoolteacher with an uncanny knack for investigation. Initially, her nosy demeanor and persistent meddling ruffle the inspector's feathers, causing him to dismiss her as an overly curious bystander. Yet, as the investigation delves deeper into the murky waters surrounding the murder, the inspector finds himself reluctantly appreciating Miss Withers' keen eye and biting intellect. Amidst a sea of red herrings and obscured truths, her unique insights prove invaluable in navigating the treacherous currents of the case. In this captivating tale of murder and misdirection, alliances are tested and perceptions challenged as Inspector Piper and the shrewd Miss Withers join forces to hunt down the elusive aquarium killer. Their unlikely partnership breathes new life into the investigation, proving that in the pursuit of justice, even the most unlikely of allies can tip the scales.

Penguin Pool Murder is a comedy movie featuring Edna May Oliver.

Penguin Pool Murder is currently streaming on TCM.