Appointment with Danger

Appointment with Danger is a gripping film noir from 1950, directed by Lewis Allen. Starring Alan Ladd as the steely postal inspector Al Goddard, and complemented by the evocative performances of Phyllis Calvert and Paul Stewart, this classic film introduces the audience to a tale of crime, suspense, and gumshoe detective work.

The film is set in post-World War II America, as Ladd's Goddard, a hard-nosed postal inspector, is deployed to Gary, Indiana to investigate the case of a fellow, slain officer who was working undercover. Goddard is the embodiment of the dogged, grim-faced investigator. Liking his job but understanding the importance of his role, he descends into the murky world of crime and danger, determined to crack the case and bring the perpetrators to justice. Alan Ladd’s portrayal of a non-nonsense, incisive investigator is notable, exhibiting the trademark grit and stoicism that has become a hallmark of detectives in the annals of film noir.

Playing opposite Alan Ladd is British actress Phyllis Calvert in the role of Sister Augustine, a Roman Catholic nun. In stark contrast to Goddard's hard shell, the character of Sister Augustine introduces a pure, innocent narrative thread into the storyline, showing us the power of faith and conviction. Sister Augustine is the only witness to the murder of the postal inspector; although, unwittingly. She becomes Goddard’s only lead as he navigates the world of organized crime. Calvert skillfully brings a measured nuance to her character, maintaining an aura of unstinting conviction.

Enter Paul Stewart and Jan Sterling as the ominous crime duo. Stewart, as gangster Earl Boettiger, demonstrates a shark-like ruthlessness and cunning that matches Ladd's Goddard, creating a fascinating cat-and-mouse dynamic. Sterling brilliantly plays Dodie, Boettiger’s unprincipled girlfriend who lives life as it comes with little thought of the consequences.

This hard-boiled crime thriller is so much more than just a detective story, it’s a movie about the constant struggle between good and evil, right and wrong, and the fine lines that these characters have to tread in the pursuit of their goals. Ladd and Calvert’s characters, in particular, offer intriguing contrasts. The gritty, no-nonsense Goddard is ready to bend the rules to solve his case, while Sister Augustine adheres strictly to her moral code, creating a dynamic tension that propels the movie forward.

Appointment with Danger is also a testament to the production value of the time, accurately depicting the post-war mood in America and the growing unrest due to rising organized crime. The lighting and sound create an atmosphere of mystery and suspense, and each shot is carefully constructed to expose the depth, complexity, and contradictions within the characters.

The noir style of this film is enhanced by the brilliant narrative interplay. The drama is set within a real-world context afforded by the script. The dialogue pulls no punches and the character interactions cultivate intrigue and tension, including streetwise lingo and snappy repartee that's reminiscent of the genre.

Appointment with Danger encapsulates the best elements of the film noir genre; a tough, brooding hero, a shady villain, a beautiful and uncertain dame, and a plot that makes the audience question the very definitions of good and bad, right and wrong. The audience is taken on a ride through a microcosm of a society grappling with a changing urban American landscape, underpinned by universal themes of crime and corruption, moral ethics, faith, and human imperfection.

While Appointment with Danger may sound like a quintessential film noir, its depth of character development, the balanced narrative, and striking contrast between the harshness of crime and the unyielding conviction of faith set it apart. The lead performances by Ladd, Calvert, and Stewart offer a fascinating look into mid-century Hollywood filmmaking, keeping the audience tethered to the edge of their seats throughout this darkly captivating tale. Whether you're a film noir aficionado or a fan of classic cinema, Appointment with Danger is a cinematic offering that's sure not to disappoint.