Time Table

Time Table is a gripping thriller from 1956 that has maintained its intrigue and excitement throughout the decades. It starred Mark Stevens, King Calder, and Felicia Farr, some of the era's most versatile actors, who delivered compelling performances to make this classic noir film a standout in the crime genre.

The plot of this movie revolves around an intricate and ingenious insurance fraud scheme that underscores the desperation and heedless abandon of people willing to go to drastic lengths for monetary gains. This classic film is set in the timeframe of the 1950s, which is both an era of change and of conservative principles, providing an interesting juxtaposition for the themes that the movie explores.

Mark Stevens stars as the lead protagonist Charlie Norman, an experienced insurance investigator who exemplifies a strong moral compass, high principles, and an unerring dedication towards his profession. However, he is unwittingly sucked into a web of deceit and malfeasance when he takes up an apparently straightforward case of a train robbery.

Felicia Farr, a versatile actress who crafts a memorable performance in this movie, plays the role of a mysterious woman named Ruth, who becomes an integral part of the plot as the story unfolds. Ruth's character adds an element of suspense and unpredictability to the narrative, making Time Table a thrilling watch.

King Calder's performance as Joe Armstrong, a dedicated railway official, adds another layer of complexity and paradox to this crime drama. His character provides an interesting perspective on duty and responsibility, playing out in contrast to the heinous crime he is put in charge of investigating.

The premise of Time Table hinges on a meticulously planned and executed heist. A train carrying a significant sum of money is robbed, and the culprits cleverly simulate the presence of a deadly virus to ensure their smooth escape. Charlie Norman's task is to uncover the truth behind this elaborate scheme and bring the culprits to justice. However, every piece of evidence seems to deepen the mystery, transforming this seemingly open-and-shut case into a convoluted puzzle plagued with twists and turns.

The film's title itself is a clever nod to the intricate planning involved in carrying out an audacious crime like this. It highlights the importance of timing and coordination in determining the success or failure of a concise plan.

Released during Hollywood's golden age, Time Table reflects the stylistic elements and thematic undertones typical of noir films of that time. It delivers a distinctive blend of suspense, drama, and moral ambiguity, deftly handled by director Mark Stevens, who skillfully unfolds an elaborate narrative while maintaining a fast-paced and gripping storyline.

The cinematic elements employed in Time Table serve to enhance the overall viewing experience. Cinematographer Charles Van Enger's use of lighting imbues the film with a sense of looming danger and uncertainty, while the tight and creative editing by Angelo Ross keeps the audience at the edge of their seats.

Time Table successfully incorporates elements of suspense, thrills, and underlying notions of morality. It remains an excellent representation of the noir genre and a testament to the storytelling capabilities present in the filmmaking of the 1950s.

Notably, the film presents an in-depth exploration of human nature, shining a spotlight on the lengths people are willing to go for personal gain. It's a thrilling journey through meticulously planned crimes, profound character studies, and the ultimate quest for justice.

Although it was made over half a century ago, Time Table stands the test of time due to its engaging performances and intriguing storyline. The movie showcases the depth and diversity of the film noir genre, delivering a well-written story packed with tension and suspense. For any movie lover, Time Table serves as a fantastic example of the brilliance of 1950s cinema and, more specifically, the noir genre's intriguing appeal.