Gayne Whitman, born Alfred D. Vosburgh in Chicago in 1890, made his mark in cult cinema with his role in Strange Fascination (1952). Transitioning from a successful radio career, where he played Chandu the Magician, he brought a distinctive flair to the screen. In Strange Fascination, Whitman embodies the complexities of a character drawn into a world of peculiar intrigue, a fitting reflection of his extensive background in both theater and film. His contributions to the genre resonate with those who appreciate the offbeat narratives that define cult cinema.
Strange Fascination
Middle-aged European pianist Paul Marvan (Hugo Haas)is brought to America by wealthy widow Diana Fowler (Mona Barrie) and he meets and weds a canary-blonde named Margo (Cleo Moore), who is a nightclub dancing partner to Carlo (Rick Vallin). Margo’s trampy and flirty behavior inflames Marvan, who is also disturbed over increasing financial and professional straits, since Diana, his wealthy “sponsor” who was more a little perturbed when Marvan married the little tramp. He thrusts one hand into a printing press in hopes of collecting $50,000 insurance, but payment is refused when it is disclosed his accident wasn’t an accident. Margo returns to Carlo, and Marvan finds refuge in a Salvation Army shelter, now playing the piano with one hand.
