*The Mystery of a Hansom Cab* (2012) is a television film adaptation of the classic detective novel by Fergus Hume, set in the atmospheric streets of late nineteenth-century Melbourne. The story begins with the shocking discovery of a man’s body inside a locked hansom cab, a horse-drawn carriage commonly used at the time. With no clear signs of how the victim was killed or who could have committed the crime, the case quickly captures public attention and becomes one of the most puzzling mysteries the city has ever faced.

At the center of the investigation is Detective Inspector Gorby, a determined but cautious officer tasked with uncovering the truth behind the seemingly impossible murder. Early evidence points toward a young Englishman named Brian Fitzgerald, who was seen arguing with the victim shortly before his death. Brian is soon arrested, and the case appears straightforward, but lingering inconsistencies suggest that the truth may be far more complicated than it first appears.

As the investigation unfolds, the film introduces a wide range of characters from different social classes, revealing the rigid divisions and hidden tensions of Victorian society. The victim, known for his mysterious background and wealth, seems to have many secrets, while those connected to him each have their own motives and past grievances. Through careful questioning and observation, Inspector Gorby begins to realize that appearances can be deceiving.

A key role in the story is played by Madge Fitzgerald, Brian’s determined sister, who refuses to believe in her brother’s guilt. Alongside a journalist named Frank Cleeve, she works tirelessly to uncover new evidence and challenge the official version of events. Their independent investigation brings emotional depth to the film and highlights themes of loyalty, love, and the pursuit of justice.

The mystery deepens as new revelations emerge, including hidden identities, secret relationships, and unexpected connections between characters. Each clue slowly reshapes the narrative, keeping viewers engaged as the true sequence of events begins to surface. The locked cab, once seen as an unsolvable puzzle, becomes the key to understanding the carefully planned crime.

In the end, *The Mystery of a Hansom Cab* delivers a satisfying resolution that exposes the real murderer and restores justice. Beyond the crime itself, the film paints a vivid portrait of a society shaped by ambition, prejudice, and secrecy. By combining classic detective storytelling with strong character development, the film remains a compelling and timeless mystery.