A Close Call for Boston Blackie

A Close Call for Boston Blackie is a black and white American crime film from 1946 that stars Chester Morris, Lynn Merrick, and Richard Lane. The movie, directed by Lew Landers and written by Jack Boyle, tells the story of Boston Blackie, a character popularized initially in short story collections and later in films, radio, and television. A Close Call for Boston Blackie is the seventh installment of a series of 14 Boston Blackie movies released by Columbia Pictures.

Boston Blackie, played by Chester Morris, is a reformed jewel thief turned detective who uses his expertise and unique connections to solve crimes and clear his name when misunderstood. His suave exterior, quick intelligence, and unique blending of legal and illicit skills position him well to navigate the dark underbelly of crime-ridden environments.

In this installment, Boston Blackie lands in a web of complications when he becomes embroiled in a complicated mystery involving an old friend's involvement in a potential murder case. As he probes deeper into the case, he finds himself swimming in a pool of intrigue, deceit, and danger, endeavouring to decipher the truth.

Lynn Merrick stars as a mysterious woman caught in the mix of the chilling plot, playing a key role in the development of the narrative and impacting Boston Blackie’s determination to seek justice. Merrick's character amplifies the tension and suspense inherent in the story, her role pivotal in the unfolding of the plot complexities.

Richard Lane plays Inspector Farraday, Boston Blackie's primary adversary, and establishes quite a lively relationship on screen with Blackie. Farraday believes in Blackie's guilt and makes every effort to bring him to justice. His relentless pursuit adds an element of rivalry and urgency to the narrative, making the retreat and progression of the plot all the more interesting.

Blackie's trusted sidekick, 'The Runt,' played by George E. Stone, provides the much-needed comic relief in the midst of the movie's gritty and suspenseful scenarios. His unique friendship with Blackie and his involvement in the investigations add to the movie's allure, contributing to the overall mix of drama, comedy, and suspense peppered throughout the plot.

Filmed during the height of the film noir era, A Close Call for Boston Blackie uses a variety of classic noir elements in its execution. As expected in this genre, the streets are dark, the mystery is deep, and the threats are palpable. The film uses clever camera angles, sharp shadows, and quick cuts to heighten suspense and give an overall darker tone to the narrative. The screenplay breaks away from capturing the glitz of the big-screen crime world to focus more on the real grit and darker shades of crime.

Despite dramatic moments and chilling suspense, A Close Call for Boston Blackie is not devoid of softer sequences, where romantic underpinnings or humorous exchanges lighten the mood. These moments of respite are smartly inserted, ensuring the overall atmosphere of the movie remains entertaining and engaging, preventing monotony from setting in.

The performances of the lead actors in their respective roles are commendable. Chester Morris as Boston Blackie brings charisma and charm to the character, capturing Blackie’s quick wit and intelligence with ease. On the other hand, Lynn Merrick, with her alluring screen presence, and Richard Lane, with his stern determination, add the right dose of suspense and rivalry to the plot.

In conclusion, A Close Call for Boston Blackie is an engaging crime drama that beautifully weaves elements of mystery, humor, and suspense, allowing audiences to get lost in a world of crime and intrigue. If you are a fan of classic film noir, Boston Blackie series, or Chester Morris, this film is surely worth watching. It offers a beautiful blend of suspenseful narrative, riveting performances, and dramatic sequences, making it a successful addition to the Boston Blackie film series.