The Curse of the Jade Scorpion

In the bustling city of New York during the year 1940, we are introduced to Betty Ann Fitzgerald, an ambitious efficiency expert. She is determined to succeed in her career but finds herself caught in a complicated affair with her superior, Chris Magruder.

Amidst Betty Ann's personal struggles, a captivating stage magician named Voltan performs at the famous Rainbow Room. His hypnotic act becomes a pivotal moment, as he inadvertently entangles Betty Ann and insurance investigator C.W. Briggs into his elaborate schemes.

During a dinner gathering, Voltan uses the suggestive words 'Madagascar' and 'Constantinople,' leading Betty Ann and C.W. into a trance. Upon regaining their senses, both are left unaware of the depths of Voltan’s influence on their lives.

C.W. Briggs receives a puzzling call from Voltan, triggering another trance-like state. The mention of 'Constantinople' leads him to commit several heists, which he cannot recollect once he awakens, further complicating his life.

As Chris reconciles with his wife, Betty Ann spirals into despair, exacerbated by her affair’s uncertainties. This emotional turmoil drives her to a desperate suicide attempt, which C.W. narrowly prevents, showcasing the depth of her struggles.

C.W. finds himself wrongfully accused and arrested for the thefts he doesn't remember committing. In search of help, he turns to Betty Ann, who reluctantly agrees to assist him in evading the authorities while grappling with her own troubles.

Voltan continues to exert his control, casting a new hypnotic line that compels Betty Ann to commit crimes for him. As the plot thickens, Betty Ann also finds herself caught in a moment of passion with C.W., both unaware of the unfolding consequences.

The narrative takes a turn when an investigation begins to reveal the hypnotic origins of the thefts. C.W. regains his memories just in time to try and rescue Betty Ann, who is caught delivering stolen jewels to Voltan.

During a tense moment, Betty Ann, still under hypnosis, declares her love for C.W. as he kisses her, igniting a passionate connection. This moment highlights the complex emotions swirling around their relationship amid the chaos.

Faced with a significant decision, C.W. chooses to resign from his job, prompting Chris to challenge him with a crucial choice that tests his integrity. This bittersweet farewell is marked by C.W.'s hope for a future with Betty Ann.

In a climactic moment, C.W. courageously pleads for Betty Ann's love, reclaiming her from Chris. As he inadvertently triggers the hypnotic phrase 'Madagascar,' Betty Ann confesses her true feelings for him, breaking free from her previous entanglements.

As C.W. prepares for new beginnings, his friends rally around him, particularly Al, who encourages him to express his feelings for Betty Ann. Al symbolizes support and camaraderie at a time when C.W. needs it the most.

In the sweetness of evening, C.W. and Betty Ann find themselves drawn together, ultimately giving in to their feelings. Their passionate encounter symbolizes not only a union of hearts but also the liberation from past manipulations.

Just as confusion envelops C.W. and Betty Ann, George reveals that he freed her from her hypnotic bonds the previous night. This revelation underscores that Betty Ann's choice to be with C.W. is genuine, solidifying their connection.