“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
