The Pace That Kills (1935)

In the quiet tranquility of a small town, Jane Bradford, an innocent diner waitress, becomes ensnared in the sophisticated charm of city slicker, Nick. Promising her an escape from her mundane existence, he introduces her to a "headache powder" that is, in reality, the addictive lure of cocaine. Blinded by love and the allure of a new life, Jane, now branded as Nick's moll, abandons her family for the city's bright lights, unaware of the sinister underbelly of her newfound world. Meanwhile, Jane's brother, Eddie, ventures into the city in search of his estranged sister. He lands a job at a drive-in where he meets Fanny, a seemingly friendly waitress who, unbeknownst to Eddie, is one of Nick's regular customers. Falling into the same deceptive trap as his sister, Eddie is introduced to the "headache medicine," spiraling into the abyss of addiction. As their lives unravel, the paths of the Bradford siblings cross with Dorothy Farley, a wealthy regular at the drive-in. Beneath her privileged exterior lies a caring heart, always ready to help those in need. However, her generous spirit catches the attention of Nick's devious associates, leading to her kidnapping in an attempt to convert her into another of Nick's drug peddling ventures. In the sordid underbelly of the city, Jane, now known as Lil, finds herself in a desperate fight to save her brother from the clutches of addiction and Dorothy from the sinister machinations of Nick's cohorts. As she navigates this treacherous world, she is forced to confront her own addiction, the reality of Nick's true identity, and the source of Dorothy's seemingly endless wealth, leading to a climax that unveils the shocking puppeteer of the city's narcotic trade. In a world where trust is a luxury and betrayal is the currency, "The Pace That Kills" is a riveting tale of innocence lost and redemption sought in the throes of addiction, deceit, and the relentless grip of the city's dark underbelly.

The Pace That Kills is a drama movie featuring Lois January and directed by William A. O'Connor.

The Pace That Kills is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Midnight Pulp, Plex, Plex Player and Tubi TV and it's also available on Amazon Prime Video, Cultpix, Fandor Amazon Channel, MGM Plus Amazon Channel, MGM Plus Roku Premium Channel, Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel and fuboTV.

It is also possible to buy The Pace That Kills on Amazon Video.