Noir Archive Volume 1: 1944-1954 (9-Film Collection) - April 23, 2019

[noiradelic]

711 Ocean Drive and The Black Book (aka Reign of Terror) are standouts. Black Book's about the French Revolution, but considering the subject matter and time period, it's about as noir it can get. As directed by Anthony Mann and lensed by John Alton, it's a gritty thriller full of betrayal, jeopardy and shadowy cinematography.

711 Ocean Drive has an imaginative premise. An electrician (Edmond O'Brien) leverages his wiring skills into becoming a major player in a crime syndicate. The execution is strong, though perhaps the film could've exploited the inherent noir potential even more. Exciting climax atop the Hoover Dam.