Wanted For Murder

Wanted for Murder takes its audience into the dark underbelly of a seemingly perfect society, exposing the disturbing secrets that often lurk beneath a polished surface. Filled with suspense, drama, and elements of psychological dark romance, this movie, released in 1946, features the impeccable talents of Eric Portman, Dulcie Gray, and Derek Farr and is directed by the visionary Lawrence Huntington.

The gripping story of Wanted for Murder marks a delightful mix of whodunit mystery and psychological thriller. It places at the centre of its intrigue the character of Victor James Colebrooke (Eric Portman), a man of distasteful heritage and a life shaded with disturbing ambiguity. Born into a wealth-imbued family with an unfortunate lineage - his father was an infamous hangman accused of enjoying his job a bit too much - Victor himself is implicated in a series of 'strangulation murders' plaguing London.

Portman’s character Victor is an individual trapped in an eerie obsession with a bygone era and embroiled with his father's horrifying legacy. With each progressive scene, the mental machinations of Victor are unravelled, creating a chilling impression on the viewers. Eric Portman presents an arresting display of acting prowess as his character wavers on the precipice of lunacy, steeped in a haunting respect for a blood-chilling heritage and a struggle to maintain his sanity.

On the other end of the spectrum is Anne Fielding (Dulcie Gray), an innocent and charming record shop assistant, who unknowingly gets caught in the web of terror spun around Victor. Their relationship infuses the story with elements of dark romance. However, Anne isn't entirely oblivious to Victor. Her love for him is tempered by unease, sensing something amiss about her suitor and his strange fixations. Dulcie Gray beautifully balances both the charm and trepidation inherent in her character.

Around Anne and Victor revolves Jack William 'Jacko' Thomas (Derek Farr), a dogged detective, pulled into an intense personal cause to stop the killings and save Anne from her dangerous suitor. Being in love with Anne, Jacko is in a race against time to prevent her from falling deeper into the clutches of possible insanity. With these dynamic characters, Wanted for Murder paints a thrilling narrative that keeps its audience on its toes.

The movie, Wanted for Murder, is nothing short of a cinematographic time capsule, mirroring the social and cultural landscape of post-war Britain. Director Lawrence Huntington is at the height of his artistic prowess as he combines elements of cinematographic excellence with engrossing storytelling. The film carries an undercurrent of psychological suspense, and its slow-burning tension is sure to send chills down your spine.

The screenplay and narrative, penned by Emeric Pressburger and Rodney Ackland, are equally praiseworthy. The suspense is maintained throughout the storyline, tightroping on the ambiguities of human psychology and duplicities of society. Wanted for Murder is enriched by its complex characters, dramatic plot twists, and suspenseful undertones.

Cinematographer Otto Heller’s period-centric visuals create enchanting imagery throughout the movie. Crafted with a command over the noir genre, the cinematography sets the tone for the seething suspense laced through the narrative. From shadow-filled alleyways to the dense fog of London, the visual element of this film beautifully complements the atmospheric suspense.

Equally, the performance of the star-studded cast led by Eric Portman is commendable. Dulcie Gray brings charm to her character that serves as a counterpoint to the distressing portrait painted by Portman. Derek Farr's doggedness adds another layer to the film's suspense-filled plot.

Overall, Wanted for Murder is a masterfully made film that would appeal to any lover of vintage British cinema. This film takes you on a thrilling ride through post-war London, compelling you to delve deeper into the mind of a man bound to his grotesque past, an innocent woman trapped in his web, and a passionate detective's pursuit for justice. The film’s enticing narrative, brilliant performances, and ominous cinematography make it a must-watch for admirers of classic noir.