Film-Noir

Time Table (1956)

4.5/5 (2)

“Time Table” is a 1956 crime film directed by Mark Stevens. The movie revolves around a meticulously planned train heist orchestrated by a group of criminals.

The story follows an ex-convict named Mike, portrayed by Mark Stevens himself, who is coerced into participating in the heist. The gang, led by a ruthless mastermind named Paul Bruckner, played by King Calder, intends to rob a train carrying a large amount of money. The plan involves carefully timing the heist to ensure a seamless execution.

As the gang members prepare for the robbery, tensions rise within the group. Mike becomes increasingly conflicted about his involvement and contemplates double-crossing the criminals. Meanwhile, a determined police detective named George Ryan, portrayed by Jack Klugman, is hot on the trail, determined to thwart the heist.

The film builds suspense as the gang’s plan is set in motion and the train approaches its designated location. However, unexpected complications arise, leading to a thrilling climax filled with action, twists, and intense confrontations.

“Time Table” explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of one’s choices. It offers a classic heist story with a focus on the intricate planning and execution of the crime, as well as the psychological dynamics among the characters involved.

Please note that as an AI language model, I don’t have access to a detailed scene-by-scene summary of the film. The information provided is based on a general understanding of the plot and themes commonly associated with “Time Table.”

Directors:
Mark Stevens

Writer:
Robert Angus, Aben Kandel

Stars:
Mark Stevens, King Calder, Felicia Farr

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The Hoodlum (1951)

4/5 (2)

“The Hoodlum” is a 1951 crime film directed by Max Nosseck. The movie tells the story of Vincent Lubeck, played by Lawrence Tierney, a hardened criminal who returns to his old neighborhood after serving a prison sentence.

Vincent is determined to leave his criminal past behind and start afresh. However, he soon finds himself drawn back into the world of crime due to the influence of his former associates. He becomes involved in a series of robberies and violent encounters, jeopardizing his chances of leading a legitimate life.

As Vincent navigates the dangerous criminal underworld, he struggles with inner conflicts, torn between his desire for redemption and the allure of fast money and power. Along the way, he encounters various characters, including a sympathetic woman who wants to help him reform.

“The Hoodlum” explores themes of redemption, the cyclical nature of crime, and the impact of one’s environment on personal choices. It delves into the psychological turmoil of a man seeking to break free from his criminal past while facing the pressures and temptations of his surroundings.

Please note that as an AI language model, I don’t have access to a detailed scene-by-scene summary of the film. The information provided is based on a general understanding of the plot and themes commonly associated with “The Hoodlum.”

Directors:
Max Nosseck

Writer:
Sam Neuman, Nat Tanchuck

Stars:
Lawrence Tierney, Allene Roberts, Marjorie Riordan

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Two Dollar Bettor (1951)

3/5 (1)

“Two Dollar Bettor” is a 1951 crime film directed by Edward L. Cahn. The movie follows the story of Larry ‘Cubby’ Brooke, played by Steve Brodie, a small-time gambler who finds himself caught in a web of deceit and danger.

Larry is a regular at the racetrack and dreams of hitting it big with his bets. One day, he meets a beautiful woman named Barbara, portrayed by Marie Windsor, who seems to share his passion for gambling. They quickly form a connection and become romantically involved.

However, Larry’s luck takes a turn for the worse when he discovers that Barbara is involved in a scheme to fix horse races. As he gets deeper into the dangerous world of race fixing, Larry realizes that he must find a way to expose the criminals and protect himself.

With the help of a sympathetic police detective, Larry gathers evidence and takes on the powerful and ruthless individuals who control the fixed races. Along the way, he faces threats, confrontations, and even betrayal from those he thought he could trust.

“Two Dollar Bettor” explores themes of trust, redemption, and the allure and dangers of the gambling world. It showcases the darker side of the horse racing industry and the moral choices that individuals face when tempted by easy money.

Please note that as an AI, I don’t have access to a detailed scene-by-scene summary of the film. The information provided is based on a general understanding of the plot and themes commonly associated with the movie.

Directors:
Edward L. Cahn

Writer:
William Raynor, Howard Emmett Rogers

Stars:
John Litel, Marie Windsor, Steve Brodie

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The Bigamist (1953)

4/5 (1)

“The Bigamist” is a 1953 film noir directed by and starring Ida Lupino. It tells the story of a man leading a double life as a result of his involvement in two marriages.

The film follows Harry Graham, portrayed by Edmond O’Brien, a traveling salesman who is married to two women simultaneously. In San Francisco, he is married to Phyllis, played by Joan Fontaine, and they run a successful business together. However, while on a business trip to Los Angeles, Harry meets and falls in love with another woman, Eve, portrayed by Ida Lupino.

As Harry becomes more deeply involved with Eve, he faces a moral and emotional struggle. He desperately tries to maintain his double life, navigating the complexities of his relationships with both wives and attempting to protect his secret from being discovered.

“The Bigamist” explores the themes of infidelity, deception, and the consequences of living a duplicitous life. It delves into the emotional turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by Harry as he tries to reconcile his conflicting desires and loyalties.

The film offers a nuanced portrayal of the characters involved, depicting their vulnerabilities and the complexities of their relationships. It presents sympathetic portrayals of all parties involved, highlighting the human complexities and flaws that lead them into their respective situations.

Ida Lupino’s direction brings a compassionate and introspective approach to the subject matter, exploring the emotional and psychological dimensions of the characters. The film avoids simple moral judgments and instead focuses on the internal struggles and complexities of its protagonist.

Overall, “The Bigamist” is a thought-provoking film that delves into the depths of human relationships and the consequences of deceit. It showcases Lupino’s talent as both a director and an actress and presents a nuanced exploration of the complexities of love, loyalty, and the choices we make.

Directors:
Ida Lupino

Writer:
Collier Young, Lawrence B. Marcus, Lou Schor

Stars:
Joan Fontaine, Ida Lupino, Edmund Gwenn

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The Strange Love of Martha Ivers (1946)

4/5 (2)

“The Strange Love of Martha Ivers” is a film noir released in 1946, directed by Lewis Milestone. Set in a small industrial town, the movie tells a gripping tale of love, deceit, and the consequences of past actions.

The story begins in 1928 when Martha Ivers, played by Barbara Stanwyck, is a young girl living under the oppressive rule of her wealthy and influential aunt, Mrs. Ivers. One fateful night, Martha’s life takes a dark turn when she accidentally kills her aunt during an altercation. Walter O’Neil, a young boy who witnesses the incident, keeps silent to protect Martha.

Years later, Martha is married to Walter, portrayed by Kirk Douglas, who has become a respected and ambitious district attorney. However, their marriage is loveless and troubled. Sam Masterson, played by Van Heflin, a drifter with a troubled past, returns to town and reignites a childhood romance with Martha. Their rekindled relationship becomes complicated as secrets from the past resurface.

The film explores themes of guilt, manipulation, and the enduring consequences of one’s actions. As Martha’s hold on power and wealth strengthens, she uses her influence to control those around her, including Walter. Sam becomes entangled in a dangerous web of deceit as he uncovers the truth about the night Martha’s aunt died.

As tensions rise and relationships become strained, the characters are faced with choices that will determine their fate. The film builds towards a climactic confrontation where past sins and hidden truths are revealed, leading to a tragic and gripping finale.

“The Strange Love of Martha Ivers” stands out for its dark and atmospheric visual style, capturing the mood and tone of classic film noir. The performances by the cast, particularly Barbara Stanwyck in the complex role of Martha, contribute to the film’s gripping and suspenseful atmosphere.

Overall, “The Strange Love of Martha Ivers” is a compelling film noir that delves into the complexities of love, power, and the consequences of one’s actions. It presents a morally ambiguous tale of twisted relationships and the haunting effects of past choices, showcasing the dark underbelly of a seemingly idyllic small town.

Directors:
Lewis Milestone

Writer:
Robert Rossen, John Patrick, Robert Riskin

Stars:
Barbara Stanwyck, Van Heflin, Lizabeth Scott

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Detour (1945)

4/5 (2)

“Detour” is a 1945 film noir directed by Edgar G. Ulmer. The film tells the gripping and darkly atmospheric story of a man caught in a series of unfortunate events and moral dilemmas.

The film follows Al Roberts (played by Tom Neal), a down-on-his-luck pianist hitchhiking from New York to Los Angeles to reunite with his girlfriend Sue. Along the way, Al gets a ride from a man named Charles Haskell Jr., who unexpectedly dies during the journey. Fearing that he will be blamed for the death, Al assumes Charles’ identity and disposes of the body.

As Al continues his journey, he encounters a mysterious and manipulative woman named Vera (played by Ann Savage). Vera becomes aware of Al’s secret and uses it to blackmail him, forcing him into a dangerous web of deceit and desperation. Al’s life quickly spirals out of control as he becomes entangled in Vera’s schemes and the consequences of his actions.

The film is characterized by its moody atmosphere, gritty visuals, and the moral ambiguity of its characters. It delves into themes of fate, guilt, and the destructive power of deceit. Al’s journey becomes a metaphorical descent into darkness, as he grapples with his past choices and the consequences of his actions.

“Detour” is known for its low-budget production and its raw, unconventional storytelling. It offers a bleak and haunting portrayal of a man’s desperate struggle for survival and redemption in a cruel and unforgiving world.

The film is considered a classic of film noir, known for its atmospheric cinematography, intense performances, and its exploration of the darker aspects of human nature. “Detour” stands as a compelling example of the genre and has left a lasting impact on the film industry.

Directors:
Edgar G. Ulmer

Writer:
Martin Goldsmith, Martin Mooney

Stars:
Tom Neal, Ann Savage, Claudia Drake

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Behind Green Lights (1946)

3/5 (1)

“Behind Green Lights” is a 1946 film noir directed by Otto Brower. The film follows the story of Police Lieutenant Sam Carson (played by William Gargan) as he investigates a murder case in a corrupt and mysterious city.

The film takes place in a city where the wealthy and powerful hold great influence, and the police force is often compromised. When a prominent socialite named Lois Frazier (played by Carole Landis) is found dead in her apartment, Lieutenant Carson is assigned to the case.

As Carson delves deeper into the investigation, he discovers that Lois had connections to the city’s corrupt underworld and was involved in a blackmailing scheme. He uncovers a web of deception, betrayal, and hidden secrets that involve powerful figures within the city’s elite.

Carson faces numerous obstacles and threats as he seeks to uncover the truth and bring the culprits to justice. He encounters femme fatales, corrupt officials, and dangerous criminals who will stop at nothing to protect their interests.

Throughout the film, Carson’s determination and integrity are tested, as he navigates a treacherous landscape where truth and justice are elusive. He must confront his own vulnerabilities and make difficult choices to solve the case and ensure that justice is served.

“Behind Green Lights” captures the essence of film noir with its atmospheric visuals, morally ambiguous characters, and a gritty depiction of a corrupt city. The film explores themes of corruption, power, and the struggle for justice in a world where darkness lurks beneath the surface.

Overall, “Behind Green Lights” is a captivating and suspenseful film noir that offers an intriguing mystery and an exploration of the human condition in the face of corruption and moral decay.

Directors:
Otto Brower

Writer:
Scott Darling, Charles G. Booth

Stars:
Carole Landis, William Gargan, Richard Crane

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Impact (1949)

4/5 (2)

“Impact” is a 1949 film noir directed by Arthur Lubin. The film tells the story of a man named Walter Williams (played by Brian Donlevy) whose life takes a dramatic turn after a failed murder attempt.

Walter Williams, a successful industrialist, becomes the target of a murder plot devised by his wife, Irene (played by Helen Walker), and her lover, Jim Torrance (played by Tony Barrett). The plan is for Walter to die in a car accident and make it look like an accident caused by drunk driving.

However, Walter survives the crash and disappears, taking on a new identity in a small town. He falls in love with a kind-hearted woman named Marsha (played by Ella Raines) and begins a new life, working as a garage mechanic.

As Walter settles into his new existence, he becomes determined to seek justice and expose the truth behind the murder attempt. He works with a determined district attorney (played by Charles Coburn) to gather evidence against his wife and her lover.

The film builds tension as the investigation unfolds, leading to a courtroom showdown where the truth is finally revealed. The climax of the film unveils unexpected twists and turns, resulting in a satisfying resolution.

“Impact” is known for its engaging plot, intricate character dynamics, and atmospheric noir visuals. It explores themes of betrayal, revenge, and redemption while keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Overall, “Impact” is a classic film noir that delivers suspense, mystery, and a compelling story of one man’s fight for justice and a second chance at life.

Directors:
Arthur Lubin

Writer:
Dorothy Davenport, Jay Dratler

Stars:
Brian Donlevy, Ella Raines, Charles Coburn

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Scarlet Street (1945)

4.67/5 (3)

“Scarlet Street” is a 1945 film noir directed by Fritz Lang and starring Edward G. Robinson, Joan Bennett, and Dan Duryea. The film tells the story of a lonely and unappreciated bank cashier named Christopher Cross (Robinson), who falls in love with a beautiful young woman named Kitty March (Bennett).

Kitty is a femme fatale who leads Christopher down a path of deception and betrayal, convincing him to use his meager savings to finance her extravagant lifestyle and her affair with a manipulative and abusive con man named Johnny (Duryea). Christopher becomes so infatuated with Kitty that he takes up painting to impress her, and she eventually persuades him to sell his paintings as her own, taking the credit and the money for herself.

As Christopher’s obsession with Kitty grows, he becomes increasingly desperate to impress her and provide for her. But when Johnny’s criminal activities catch up with him, Christopher is framed for murder, and his life spirals out of control. In the end, he confronts Kitty and Johnny and takes drastic action to try to regain control of his life.

“Scarlet Street” is a haunting and psychologically complex film that explores themes of love, obsession, betrayal, and the human need for validation and recognition. The film is noted for its moody and atmospheric visuals, its stark and uncompromising storytelling, and its powerful performances, particularly from Edward G. Robinson as the tragic protagonist.

Directors:
Fritz Lang

Writer:
Georges de La Fouchardière, André Mouëzy-Éon, Dudley Nichols

Stars:
Edward G. Robinson, Joan Bennett, Dan Duryea

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Million Dollar Weekend (1948)

3/5 (1)

“Million Dollar Weekend” is a film noir released in 1948, directed by Gene Raymond and starring Gene Raymond, Osa Massen, and Francis L. Sullivan.

The story follows three men – Van Morgan (Gene Raymond), Bill Whiting (Richard Denning), and Nicholas Lawrence (Francis L. Sullivan) – who are bored with their mundane lives and decide to stage a fake kidnapping to get their hands on a million-dollar ransom.

Their plan quickly unravels as they encounter a series of unexpected obstacles and betrayals, including a suspicious police inspector (George Coulouris) and a femme fatale (Osa Massen) who may be playing her own game.

As tensions mount and the situation becomes increasingly dangerous, the men must rely on their wits and each other to survive the weekend and make it out with the money.

Ultimately, “Million Dollar Weekend” is a tense and suspenseful thriller that explores themes of greed, deception, and the lengths people will go to for a taste of excitement and adventure.

Directors:
Gene Raymond

Writer:
Charles Belden, Matty Kemp, Gene Raymond

Stars:
Gene Raymond, Osa Massen, Francis Lederer

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Blonde Ice (1948)

3/5 (2)

“Blonde Ice” is a film noir directed by Jack Bernhard and released in 1948. The movie follows the story of Claire Cummings (played by Leslie Brooks), a beautiful and ambitious society columnist who will stop at nothing to get what she wants.

Claire’s ruthless ambition leads her to marry a wealthy businessman, but when he finds out about her many affairs, he threatens to divorce her and cut her off financially. In response, Claire decides to murder him and frame it as a suicide.

As the investigation into her husband’s death begins, Claire’s true nature is gradually exposed, and she is forced to commit more and more heinous acts to protect her secrets. Along the way, she manipulates and seduces several men, including her former lover, a police detective, and a wealthy businessman.

The film is a gripping and suspenseful thriller that explores the dark side of human nature and the lengths that some people will go to achieve their goals. Leslie Brooks gives a standout performance as Claire, a chilling and manipulative femme fatale who will do whatever it takes to get what she wants.

Directors:
Jack Bernhard

Writer:
Kenneth Gamet, Whitman Chambers, Dick Irving Hyland

Stars:
Robert Paige, Leslie Brooks, Russ Vincent

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The Limping Man (1953)

3/5 (1)

“The Limping Man” is a British film noir from 1953, directed by Cy Endfield. The movie follows the story of a man named Frank Prior, who is released from prison after serving time for a crime he didn’t commit. Upon his release, he is determined to clear his name and find the real culprit.

Prior soon discovers that his girlfriend has disappeared and sets out to find her. In his search, he comes across a gang of criminals who are involved in a counterfeit money scheme. The leader of the gang is known as “The Limping Man” due to a physical deformity.

As Prior gets closer to uncovering the truth about the gang and his girlfriend’s disappearance, he finds himself in increasing danger. He is aided by a sympathetic cab driver, who helps him in his investigation.

The film builds to a dramatic conclusion as Prior confronts “The Limping Man” and the truth is revealed about his girlfriend’s disappearance and the counterfeit scheme. In the end, justice is served, and Prior is cleared of any wrongdoing.

“The Limping Man” is a classic film noir that showcases the genre’s trademark elements of suspense, danger, and mystery. It also features strong performances from the cast, particularly from the lead actor, Lloyd Bridges, who plays Frank Prior with intensity and determination.

Directors:
Cy Endfield

Writer:
Ian Stuart Black, Reginald Long, Anthony Verney

Stars:
Lloyd Bridges, Moira Lister, Alan Wheatley

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The Second Woman (1950)

3/5 (1)

“The Second Woman” is a 1950 American film noir directed by James V. Kern and starring Robert Young, Betsy Drake, and John Sutton.

The film follows the story of a wealthy San Francisco architect named Jeff Cohalan (Robert Young), who is haunted by the tragic death of his first wife in a boating accident. He becomes increasingly obsessed with the idea that his new wife, Ellen (Betsy Drake), is destined to suffer the same fate.

As Jeff’s paranoia grows, he becomes increasingly possessive and controlling, alienating Ellen and causing tension in their marriage. When a former business associate of Jeff’s arrives in town, he begins to suspect that the man is involved in a conspiracy to harm Ellen.

But as Jeff’s mental state deteriorates, it becomes increasingly unclear whether his fears are justified, or simply the product of his own troubled mind. The film builds suspense and tension as it explores the depths of Jeff’s psychological turmoil, and the impact it has on those around him.

With its intricate plot and complex characters, “The Second Woman” is a classic example of film noir. It features strong performances from the lead actors, particularly Robert Young as the troubled protagonist, and Betsy Drake as the loyal but conflicted Ellen. The film is a gripping psychological drama that keeps the audience guessing until the very end.

Directors:
James V. Kern

Writer:
Mort Briskin, Robert Smith

Stars:
Robert Young, Betsy Drake, John Sutton

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I Love Trouble (1948)

4/5 (1)

“I Love Trouble” is a 1948 American film noir directed by S. Sylvan Simon and starring Franchot Tone and Janet Blair.

The film follows the story of a hard-boiled crime reporter named Stuart Bailey (Franchot Tone), who teams up with a beautiful society girl named Nora Tierney (Janet Blair) to investigate a murder case. The victim is a wealthy businessman, and the suspects are all members of his family, each with a motive for the crime.

As Bailey and Tierney delve deeper into the case, they face danger and intrigue at every turn. They uncover a tangled web of lies, deception, and betrayal that takes them from the mansions of the wealthy elite to the seedy underworld of the city.

The chemistry between Bailey and Tierney grows as they work together, adding a touch of romance to the film. But as they get closer to the truth, they find themselves in grave danger, and must use all of their skills and wits to stay alive.

With its suspenseful plot, witty dialogue, and dynamic lead performances, “I Love Trouble” is a classic example of the film noir genre. It keeps the audience guessing until the very end, with a thrilling climax that brings the mystery to a satisfying conclusion.

Directors:
S. Sylvan Simon

Writer:
Roy Huggins

Stars:
Franchot Tone, Janet Blair, Janis Carter

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Terror by Night (1946)

4/5 (1)

“Terror by Night” is a 1946 American film directed by Roy William Neill and starring Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce, and Alan Mowbray. The movie is part of the Sherlock Holmes film series, based on the detective stories of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

The film follows Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they board a train bound for London, where they are to deliver the famous diamond, the Star of Rhodesia, to its new owner. However, the diamond is stolen and a passenger is murdered, leaving Holmes and Watson to solve the crime and recover the diamond.

As they investigate, they encounter a cast of suspicious characters, including a mysterious woman, a master thief, and a man with a secret agenda. With the help of a clever disguise and some quick thinking, Holmes must uncover the true culprit before they can escape with the valuable diamond.

“Terror by Night” is a thrilling and suspenseful mystery film that showcases the brilliance of Sherlock Holmes and the loyal support of Dr. Watson. With its intricate plot and clever twists, it is a must-see for fans of the detective genre.

Directors:
Roy William Neill

Writer:
Frank Gruber, Arthur Conan Doyle

Stars:
Basil Rathbone, Nigel Bruce, Alan Mowbray

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