Compulsion

Compulsion is a gripping psychological crime thriller from 1959, starring a fearlessly intense Orson Welles and the ominously cool Dean Stockwell, along with a fiercely expressive Diane Varsi. Produced by Richard D. Zanuck and directed by Richard Fleischer, the film was an adaptation of Meyer Levin's book, which in turn was based on the infamous Leopold and Loeb murder case of 1924. This film leverages the unique narrative perspective of the novel, adding new depth and psychological complexity to a chilling story.

Taking place in Chicago during the 1920s, Compulsion introduces us to two affluent college students, Judd Steiner (Dean Stockwell) and Artie Strauss (Bradford Dillman). Friends yet diametrically opposed in their personal attributes, the film captures their disturbingly symbiotic relationship. Stockwell's character - Judd, is an introverted, highly intellectual, and emotionally unstable young man, while Dillman's character - Artie, is extroverted, charming, and manipulative, introducing an interesting dynamic between the two lead characters.

These two young men believe themselves to be intellectually superior to those around them and under the influence of Nietzschean philosophy, deduce that they are practically above the law. Taking this unhealthy sentiment to a lethal extreme, they commit a horrifying crime, intending it to be the "perfect crime", demonstrating their perceived superiority – a deeply disturbing trick of nihilism and arrogance.

Orson Welles enters as Jonathan Wilk (a character based on Clarence Darrow, the renowned lawyer who defended Leopold and Loeb). Despite appearing late in the film, Welles' unforgettable monologues and powerful courtroom performance lend significant weight to the movie. He is the moral compass, challenging the arrogant postulation of the boys and delivering a hard-hitting critique of capital punishment. Pitted against the icy resolve of Stockwell and Dillman, Welles showcases his profound understanding of character and emotion, painting a stirring portrait of human flaw and redemption.

Diane Varsi, best known for her role in 'Peyton Place', brings her acting finesse to Compulsion as Ruth Evans. Ruth is a critical character adding an element of emotional depth, her interactions with Judd and Artie revealing starkly contrasting aspects of their personalities. Ruth oscillates between the idealism of youth and the harsh realities her friends introduce her to, offering a much-needed counterpoint to the chillingly rational demeanor of the two leads.

The setting of the story in an era of American history characterized by its socio-economic divide, exploring themes of privilege, intellectual arrogance, and the ethical implications of the central characters' actions, lends 'Compulsion' its enduring relevance. The film’s portrayal of the interplay between intelligence and morality, between one's abilities and how one chooses to use them, rings true over half a century later.

The film presents a gritty portrayal of reality combined with stylish noir aesthetics that heighten the emotional intensity of the narrative. Cinematographer William C. Mellor masterfully employs light and shadow to accentuate the psychological intensity of the film. The film's screenplay, penned by Richard Murphy, cleverly draws on audience sympathy, playing a tense game of cat and mouse that keeps viewers glued to their seats.

Compulsion's strength lies in understanding its characters, their motivations and their relationship with the world around them. It makes for an exquisite piece of cinema that, while born out of a horrific and sensational murder case, is a thoughtful meditation on the human capacity for evil, redemption, and understanding in equal measure.

Intense, haunting and historically significant, Compulsion is a timeless exploration of the boundaries of human morality and the consequences of crossing them. With an impeccable cast and masterful direction, it is a must-watch for fans of courtroom drama and true crime.