While not the origin of the MacGuffin – that’s credited to screenwriter Angus MacPhail, though it was later popularized by ol’ Al Hitchcock – this noir might be what first comes to mind for this cinematic trope. Specifically, the titular statuette at the center of the mystery’s action, which serves as the inciter of drama between detectives, femmes fatales, and toadies within. Here, Humphrey Bogart debuts his iconic spin on Sam Spade, author Dashiell Hammett’s gumshoe avatar, thanks to a no-remakes clause in original choice George Raft’s contract. Will he find who snatched the jewel-encrusted bird of prey? Hit the Second and San Antonio Street theatre to find out. – James Scott
