Desperate is the 1947 film noir. Steve Randall is hired for a truck driving job, but finds out that he’s transporting stolen goods. He refuses to cooperate with Walt Radak’s gang, even under the threat of death. After Walt frames Steve, he and his wife Ann flee to her relative’s farm. What they don’t know is that Walt is following them. Steve finally talks to the police, who want to use him to arrest the gang. Walt finds them at the farm and they have to flee. Steve finally decides not to run anymore and face Walt. Can he survive the final showdown?
This is a pretty good film noir that has the viewer on the edge of their seat. It gets so bad that we fear for Steve’s life even as he sends his wife and child to safety. The end comes as a surprise since a more cynical writer could have killed the both of them off or have Walt kill Steve. We do get some heartwarming scene as Ann’s relatives let them stay and throw a Czech style wedding. The plot has a paranoiac feel as it shows that a person looking for a job may fall prey to criminals. Honolulu film noir fans should watch this movie.
More at: Tricia’s Retro Film Reviews
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