(VOD) Another undersung Bogart film, this time coupled with Bacall. Based on David Goodis’ novel — which, sadly, I have yet to read — it’s a far more sophisticated first-person noir than the gimmicky adaptation of Chandler’s THE LADY IN THE LAKE (also 1947). Burton’s infamous Joker reveal scene in BATMAN (1989) was absolutely cribbed from DARK PASSAGE.
Noir
IN A LONELY PLACE (1950)
(Plex/Prime/VOD) Adapted from the groundbreaking Dorothy B. Hughes novel, Nicolas Ray’s film is less of an examination of PTSD and toxic masculinity than that of a melodramatic noir of a distrustful couple. It’s a completely different beast, but no less powerful, mostly because Ray was contractually obligated to make the film with his recent ex-wife Gloria Grahame, who he divorced because he caught her in bed with his 13-year-old son, whom she later married. (Yes, really. https://medium.com/@stowens/the-not-so-wonderful-life-of-gloria-grahame-2d996a843c83 )
It’s a gorgeous, sad, film that utilizes Bogart’s charisma and volatility, while also leveraging some pitch-perfect production design, and puts post-WWII emotions on display.
GUN CRAZY (1950)
(HBO MAX/VOD) Undersung misfit noir that directly inspired and influenced the major French New Wave directors, and you most certainly wouldn’t have BONNIE & CLYDE without it.
Filmed in a vivid cinéma vérité style, it’s a surprisingly complex character piece, while still managing to be a satisfying caper. The heist scene (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28aPxWtdaGY) is one that will feel familiar, simply because so many filmmakers have cribbed from it, Scorsese in particular.
MURDER, MY SWEET (1944)
(VOD) Me, upon starting the film: Ah, finally filling in one of my noir gaps.
Five minutes later: Wait, have I seen this before?
After an IMDB check: Duh, I forgot that it’s an adaptation of FAREWELL, MY LOVELY, and was renamed MURDER, MY SWEET because test audiences thought FAREWELL, MY LOVELY sounded like a Dick Powell musical.
Regardless, this is the definitive adaptation of FAREWELL, MY LOVELY, and the model for all Chandler-inspired films. Wish I would’ve watched it years ago, but better late than never.
FAREWELL, MY LOVELY (1975)
(fubu/hoopla/peacock) A bit too late in life for Mitchum to play the role, but better late than never. Rampling makes a great femme fatale.