Reviewing films slightly off the beaten path
The Thin Man introduced the world to married sleuths Nick and Nora Charles. Based on the novel by Dashiell Hammett, the film is a pitch perfect blend of comedy and mystery that still holds up wonderfully. Warner Archive have given the film a Blu-ray release.
Beat the Devil – starring a cavalcade of stars (Humphrey Bogart, Peter Lorre, Gina Lollobrigida) – has been rescued from public domain hell by Twilight Time with a definitive 4K scan.
No Down Payment is a deeply cynical look at the troubled suburban lives of the post-war generation. Martin Ritt directs an excellent cast that includes Tony Randall and Joanne Woodward. Twilight Time gave the film a Blu-ray release with a great transfer provided by 20th Century Fox.
The Possessed is an exceptionally crafted film. It is an atmospheric masterpiece and one of the best films in Arrow’s fantastic lineup.
Phantom Lady is an enjoyable film noir featuring a strong performance by Ella Raines. Arrow Academy released the Universal Pictures film on Blu-ray.
The Prisoner is a well written and perfectly acted morality play with the great Alec Guinness in the lead role. The film was controversial upon its release. It holds up well.
My Name is Julia Ross is an enjoyable thriller from Director Joseph H. Lewis that should please fans of films like Hitchcock’s Rebecca.
Joseph H. Lewis directed this interesting film noir thriller that is very different from his other films. Arrow Academy has provided a great looking transfer provided by Sony.
The Big Clock is a fun thriller with an excellent sense for dialogue and humor. With both Ray Milland and Charles Laughton in top form, the film is a solid release by Arrow Academy.
Cat People is an excellent exercise in technique that elevates a B-movie into grand entertainment. The Val Lewton produced RKO film has been given lush treatment by Criterion.
Based on a Cornell Woolrich novel, The Leopard Man stands as one of the best films of the Val Lewton RKO pictures run. Shout!Factory have given it a pristine release.
