The Prowler

The Prowler, directed by Joseph Losey and released in 1951, is a classic tale of obsession, deception, and greed. This intense film noir showcases lead performances by Van Heflin, fresh off his Academy Award success, and Evelyn Keyes, known for her role in Gone with the Wind.

The story centers around the complex and darker side of human nature. Heflin plays Webb Garwood, a disgruntled Los Angeles cop with a sympathetic demeanor and a deeply rooted dissatisfaction with his life. A chance call to a possible prowling incident leads him to Susan Gilvray's (Keyes) doorstep, an attractive, affluent but lonely woman who eagerly welcomes his company. Her husband works the night shift at a local radio station, leaving her home alone in their seemingly safe, suburban paradise.

Van Heflin's character, once establishing a rapport with Susan, allows his true, sinister intentions to surface. As a cop, he knows the ins and outs of the law, which he proves capable of exploiting to his advantage. But just how far will he go to secure his newfound opportunity for a life far more comfortable and fulfilling than his current existence? This forms the crux of the intriguing plot, which is smartly veiled in the suspense and drama so characteristic of the noir genre.

Evelyn Keyes pulls off a brilliant performance as Susan, a woman whose life is devoid of companionship, owing to her husband's absence. Her susceptibility makes her vulnerable to Webb's charm, and as the dynamics between the characters unfold, the audience cannot help but remain on the edge of their seats, awaiting the story's inevitable climax.

The film’s script, written by Dalton Trumbo, is full of tension and layered with complexity. Trumbo, already a Hollywood heavyweight at the time, was unfortunately blacklisted as part of the infamous Hollywood Ten for his alleged communist affiliations. He wrote this movie under a pseudonym, choosing to use an engaging narrative that scrutinizes the darker side of American Dream. His writing make "The Prowler" not just a story of personal greed or deception, but a critique of societal values and conventions.

The backdrop of The Prowler is 1950s Los Angeles, a city-wide film set teeming with potential and danger alike. From opulent suburban homes to the arid expanse of the Mojave Desert, the locations blend impeccably with Losey's direction and Russell Metty’s cinematography. The contrast between the claustrophobic interiors and vast empty exteriors contribute significantly to the film's sense of trepidation. All the elements blend to heighten the intensity and the inherent unease that lies beneath the straightforward plot.

One of the standout features of the movie lies in its handling of sound, where a laudable work can be appreciated. The emotions of the characters often coincide or clash strikingly with the atmosphere created by the soundtracks. The frequent radio broadcasts signal underlying themes and propel the plot forward.

The Prowler delivers a riveting exploration of moral corruption and the abuse of authority. It is a film that deserves a special place amidst the vast realm of film noir. Its thematic richness and complex character dynamics are amplified by superb performances from the cast. It effectively blurs the line between saint and sinner, proving that evil can often inhabit familiar and unsuspected corners.

This multi-layered narrative remains as morally challenging and captivating today as it did at the time of its release. It remains a masterfully executed product of its genre and a memorable testament to the talent of those who contributed to its making, carrying with it an enduring legacy that adheres to anyone who encounters it. The Prowler is an excellent example of 1950s cinema, that uses its noir trappings to explore darker societal themes. Undoubtedly a classic, it still holds relevance and continues to captivate the audience even today.