Big Combo, The - 1955

The 1955 film, The Big Combo - Digitally Remastered Version, is an iconic tour-de-force in the realm of American Film Noir under the skilled direction of Joseph H. Lewis. Revel in the visually impressive, atmospherically dense piece of cinema starring Cornel Wilde, Richard Conte, and Jean Wallace that has been brought back to life in a digitally remastered version, enhancing both the visual and auditory experience for today's audience.

In The Big Combo, Cornel Wilde shines as Lieutenant Leonard Diamond, an obsessive, passionate police detective who is dogged in his pursuit of justice. Diamond embodies the classic traits of the Noir protagonist – he is disillusioned, inherently noble, navigating through a world seeped in moral ambiguity. Diamond's unchecked obsession with dismantling the insidious underworld empire controlled by a dreaded mob boss effectively drives the plot of this film.

The antagonist, Mr. Brown, played impeccably by Richard Conte, is a ruthless, sly, and suave racketeer leading an underworld empire—The Big Combo. He rules his empire sophisticatedly, maintaining a chillingly calm demeanor throughout. His lack of hesitation to resort to cruelty to ensure his power stays intact turns the narrative truly engaging. Mr. Brown’s unflinching readiness to keep power at any cost intensifies the battle against Diamond, forming the crux of the story.

Jean Wallace demonstrates skillful acting prowess in her dynamic portrayal of Susan, Mr. Brown's tormented girlfriend caught in a complex romantic entanglement. Her performance adds depth to the story, adroitly playing a character battling conflicted feelings for Brown while experiencing attraction towards Diamond. Her beautifully complex character becomes a catalyst for the events that arise, and Wallace executes her part flawlessly, adding another layer of drama to the narrative.

The narrative of The Big Combo unwinds in a complex world of twisted affection, relentless ambition, and moral quandaries. It meticulously stages the psychological playing field where the characters operate, painting a detailed tableau of mid-century urban America's grim underbelly.

This film's visual aesthetic is markedly striking, serving as an archetypical example of film noir cinematography. The movie's brooding narrative is complemented by the high-contrast black-and-white imagery, dramatically cloaked shadows, and unusual camera angles. The unsettling atmosphere created by these visual techniques encapsulates the hopelessness and despair inherent in its world.

The expert hand of Joseph H. Lewis shines through in every scene. His adept play with light and shadows, the creative composition, and arrangement of the settings help shape the characters' internal struggles and their relentless pursuit to outdo each other. The director's elaborate detailing in the crime scenes, lavish nightclubs, and the murky backstreets help set a sinister charm engulfing film noir, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

The remastered version of The Big Combo holds onto the film's original charm, delivering improved visuals and sound quality to modern audiences. The restoration process has breathed fresh life into this phenomenal piece of classic cinema, making an already memorable viewing experience even more enthralling. Fans of the original will appreciate this version that has delivered the same tension, grit, and emotional intensity - but with even deeper clarity and quality.

John Alton, the cinematographer, should also be commended for his groundbreaking work in this film. Alton's imaginative and stark use of light and shadows enhances the sense of fatalism and despair that pervades the narrative.

The Big Combo - Digitally Remastered Version truly excels in almost every cinematic aspect – whether it be the layered storyline, compelling performances, gripping direction, or phenomenal execution of film noir style. The film, from its atmospheric visuals to its engaging narrative, epitomizes the bewitching allure of classic noir and is a must-watch for cinema enthusiasts, especially those with an inclination towards thrilling crime dramas that go beyond mere surface-level entertainment.