DePalma's The Black Dahlia

[TeresofBlood]

This film is so visually splendid that it would be worth the price of admission on blu-ray. I know a lot of people hated it, and that is unfortunate because it will probably be a long time before it comes out. Hopefully we could get an extended cut, because this film NEEDS to be longer. I have heard such a cut exists.

For those who haven't seen it or didn't like it and are reconsidering checking it out, here is a short analysis I wrote after seeing it in theaters:

The film turned out to be much better than I expected. In terms of style and storytelling, it felt, from beginning to end, like an authentic Film Noir. The cinematography was amazing, with a lot of Deep Focus shots, it really adds so much to the ambiance of the film. Visually, the film is amazing.

In terms of the plot, the first half hour feels unnecessary and overly visual, but after that, you lose yourself in the compelling plot. It feels very much like a novel, in that novels are often filled with events that add little to the film. For instance, the film opens with a riot scene between zoot-suits and service men. This event adds nothing to the plot, but it's one of those nuances the writer of the novel included to entrench us in his world. In the world of film, every event has to add something to the plot, because films can never be as long as the novels that inspire them. The plot is very dramatic. Those expecting to see a thriller will be disappointed, but those looking for an excellent Film Noir, will enjoy it.

In terms of casting, I think the film accomplishes its goals very well. Hartnett in the lead does quite well. He is enjoyable to watch throughout, though there are a few moments that could've used a little more emotion, but then again, Film Noirs are always filled with stoic characters. Aaron Eckhart was great as the passionate, but flawed cop. There is little to complain about in his performance. Johansson was perfect in her role. Like her role in "The Man Who Wasn't There," her personality is right out of the time period. She has such an old-fashioned look to her, and it works for her in this film. She would not be better served playing one of the film's seductresses, as I think people were expecting. I feel that Hilary Swank overacted at times, but in the end, she provoked the desired audience reaction beautifully.

The music on the film perfect for the type of film. From beginning to end, it feels like the perfect Film Noir score. Dare I say, it is reminiscent of Chinatown at times. It is very authentic and adds an entire dimension to the film.

My only real problem with the film is the ending. There is so much going on that the film attempts (and fails) to wrap everything up into a neat little box. This is the only time I found myself going, "what the hell just happened?" It doesn't kill the movie for me, because I see it as this film's way of staying with you after it ends.

All in all, if you were expecting an edgy thriller, this film is not for you. But if you're looking for a great Film Noir with many great dimensions and aspects, great acting, and great writing, this is the film for you.

One final thought to James Ellroy fans; this film is not as good as LA Confidential, but great in it's own right.