The Sound of Fury

The Sound of Fury, also known as Try and Get Me, is an intense socio-politically charged noir thriller released in 1950. Directed by Cy Endfield and starring Frank Lovejoy, Kathleen Ryan, and Richard Carlson, this film is an adherent commentary on the power of media and mob mentality that sadly remains relevant today.

Based on the novel "The Condemned" by Jo Pagano, the plot centres on a desperate unemployed man who ventures into a dangerous world, eventually getting entangled in a catastrophic situation. Frank Lovejoy impresses with his portrayal of the lead character, Howard Tyler, an out-of-luck family man struggling to make ends meet for his wife (Kathleen Ryan) and their young son. Life takes a grim turn for Howard when he falls into the ill-intentioned company of petty criminal, Jerry Slocum (Lloyd Bridges), who promises financial stability at the steep cost of crime commitment.

As we delve deeper, we witness the thrilling sequence of their crimes escalating from petty robbery to a harrowing kidnapping. Amid such events, the narrative draws in a relentless divorced alcoholic reporter, Gil Stanton, enigmatically played by Richard Carlson. Gil’s ambition could not ask for a better story, and this one just seems to set him on the path to glory. The film, at this point, is a deliberate dive into the human psyche; exploring the dynamics of desperation, survival, ambition, and human vulnerability.

The Sound of Fury is masterfully crafted by Cy Enfield, packing powerful performances and gripping storytelling. It amplifies the possible impact of media manipulation and public sentiment without cushioning the grim realities of our society. The idiosyncratic film title is an apt metaphor and reference to the movie's complex and climactic exploration of stimulating emotional fury. The viewer can’t help but wonder about the layers of symbolism spread throughout the plot, urging introspection and reflection on societal structures.

Frank Lovejoy imbibes an exceptional versatility to Howard's character. His internal struggle as a man pushed to his limits, the escalating guilt, and the despair of being entrapped in an uncontrollable situation is depicted brilliantly. Kathleen Ryan as the unsuspecting and devoted wife provides the right emotional balance, reflecting the tense undercurrent of hopelessness. Lloyd Bridges’ portrayal as the cold and manipulative Jerry Slocum adds another layer of antagonistic tension to the plot. Richard Carlson, on the other hand, carries forwards the narrative with his impressively resonating role of an ambitious reporter who plays a significant part in unravelling the climax.

Although The Sound of Fury was released in 1950, it touches upon the subjects of media influence, societal pressure, and moral dilemmas with alarming poignancy. It lays bare the potential dangers of unchecked mob rule fuelled by media sensation and asks unsettling questions about societal violence.

Interestingly, The Sound of Fury retains a hard-hitting realistic touch with its depiction of a 1930’s socio-economic crisis. The movie's backdrop accurately reflects the bleak economy, creating a milieu representing marginalised communities and the tensions, the anxieties, the desperation they face, causing them to resort to extreme measures for survival.

Filmed in black and white, the cinematographer, Guy Roe, does an excellent job of capturing the post-war unrest, leveraging the visual medium to its full potential. Each frame is meticulously composed, using shadows and light to impart depth to the narrative. This perfect blend of subterranean style and realism makes this film a memorable piece of cinema.

The Sound of Fury may have been released over seven decades ago, but its themes and issues remain disturbingly relevant in today’s societal landscape. The film not only showcases strong performances and a gripping story but also serves to provide a compelling commentary on the complex socio-political realities of our world. This film stands out as an example of how cinema can serve as a powerful tool for socio-political commentary and induces deeper thinking in its audience. Therefore, it is not just a movie, but an artefact of cinematic brilliance conveying an impactful narrative.