The Dark Corner

Watch The Dark Corner

"Save your lipstick, girls, he plays for keeps."
  • Passed
  • 1946
  • 1 hr 39 min
  • 7.1  (5,054)

The Dark Corner is a classic film noir from 1946 that stars Lucille Ball, Clifton Webb, and William Bendix. Directed by Henry Hathaway, this movie follows the story of a private investigator named Bradford Galt (Mark Stevens), who is falsely accused of murdering his partner, Tony Jardine (Kurt Kreuger). As the movie begins, Galt is trying to start a new life after serving time in prison for a crime he didn't commit. However, his past catches up with him when Jardine's widow, Mari Cathcart (Ball), hires him to find her missing husband. Galt suspects that Jardine is dead, but he takes the case to clear his name and prove his innocence.

As Galt delves deeper into the case, he discovers a web of deception and murder that involves a shady art dealer named Hardy Cathcart (Webb), who is Mari's new husband. Galt also meets a tough-talking secretary named Kathleen (played by Lucille Ball), who helps him track down leads and unravel the mystery.

William Bendix plays the role of Lieutenant Frank Reeves, a police detective who initially suspects Galt of the murder but later becomes his ally. Reeves provides crucial information that helps Galt piece together the clues and solve the case.

The Dark Corner is a classic film noir that showcases the genre's trademark visual style and narrative structure. The movie features stark black-and-white cinematography by Joseph MacDonald, which creates a sense of brooding atmosphere and tension. The use of shadows and low-angle shots adds to the film's ominous mood, while the jazzy score by Cyril J. Mockridge intensifies the action.

The performances by the cast are excellent, particularly Mark Stevens in the lead role. Stevens brings a sense of cool detachment to Galt, which makes him a compelling hero. Lucille Ball is also impressive in her role as Kathleen, delivering snappy one-liners and demonstrating her versatility as an actress beyond her comedic persona.

Clifton Webb plays the villainous Hardy Cathcart with relish, providing a sense of menace and sophistication. Webb's trademark snobbery and hauteur make him a memorable foe for Galt. William Bendix provides solid support as Lieutenant Reeves, bringing a sense of gruff authority to his role.

Overall, The Dark Corner is a stylish and suspenseful film noir that deserves its status as a classic of the genre. The movie explores themes of betrayal, deception, and redemption, all set against a backdrop of crime and corruption. If you're a fan of film noir, you won't want to miss this gripping tale of a private eye on the trail of a sinister killer.

The Dark Corner
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Description
  • Release Date
    1946
  • MPAA Rating
    Passed
  • Runtime
    1 hr 39 min
  • Language
    English
  • IMDB Rating
    7.1  (5,054)