Cry Danger

Cry Danger is a captivating blend of film noir, mystery, and drama that was released in 1951. The American crime film, directed by Robert Parrish, boasts a cast that includes Dick Powell, Rhonda Fleming, and Richard Erdman. This film explores themes of trust and betrayal, justice, and redemption through its intricate plot, dynamic characters, and riveting dialogue. The intriguing plot underpins a captivating story of friendship, loyalty, betrayal, and the pursuit of justice, with an underlying hint of romance permeating the narrative.

The film's protagonist, Rocky Mulloy (Dick Powell), is a fresh-out-of-jail character, who was exonerated after five years in prison for a robbery and murder-based on the testimony of a crippled Marine veteran named Delong (Richard Erdman). However, Mulloy's troubles are far from over, and so begins the journey to unearth the truth and find the real culprits. Powell's performance as Mulloy creates a brooding and complex character, whose past and future crimes form the crux of Cry Danger.

Then comes Rhonda Fleming as Nancy, a woman drawn into the complexity of Mulloy's life. She is the former girlfriend of the person who Ferguson is presumed to have killed, whilst also being the wife of the man who testified for Mulloy's alibi. Fleming's compelling performance catches attention, and her mysterious aura adds another layer of suspense to the ongoing narrative.

Richard Erdman's character, the Marine war veteran Delong, is the story's moral compass, offering a sense relief through his humor amidst the stark noir setting. His unwavering loyalty and undeniable wit provide an excellent sidekick to Mulloy's tough exterior, creating a dynamic and interesting duo as the story unfolds.

The narrative is filled with twists and turns, featuring corrupt cops, fallen dames, and seedy bar-goers, all set against the background of a post-war Los Angeles setting. Through the use of striking black and white cinematography, director Parrish and his team paint a vivid picture of a stark, gritty city that becomes a central character in its own right.

Cry Danger engrosses us into a gripping storyline, persistently unfolding its layered plot while illuminating dark corners of its characters' hearts. Steeped heavily in the noir tradition, this film transports the viewer into a world where justice and crime intertwine, leading us to question where the line between the two blurs.

With its cleverly engineered twists, engaging characters, and masterfully built tension, Cry Danger transcends from being merely a tale of crime. Parrish's use of humor and suspense further elevates the film, making it more than a parade of familiar faces from the noir genre. The movie's dialogue is sharp, filled with layers of wit and irony, reflecting the constant struggle of its characters. The movie pays homage to the genre while also cutting its own path with unique character development and storytelling.

Cry Danger is a film that captures the aftermath of crime and its effects on life after prison. Powell's resilient and relentless Mulloy symbolizes a man bound and determined to fight for justice after being wronged. Meanwhile, Fleming provides an intriguing femme fatale persona. With great performances and a tight script, it possesses all the timeless elements of an iconic film noir.

By all accounts, Cry Danger marked a highpoint in Powell's, Fleming's, and Erdman's careers, setting a benchmark in a genre that would continue to mesmerize audiences in the years to come. The viewers witness the struggles, sacrifices, and victories of the characters, making it more than a cinematic venture.

All in all, Cry Danger is a gem from the golden age of Hollywood, embodying the very spirit of film noir through its stunning cinematography, engaging storytelling, and distinguished performances. Despite being released nearly 70 years ago, the film remains an enduring classic that continues to fascinate lovers of the genre. Its ability to evoke suspense, surprise, and sympathy sets it apart, making it an essential watch for any film noir aficionado. For the uninitiated, it marks a perfect starting point into the realm of film noir and classic cinema.