|
|
 |
|
|
Library Film
Features The Big Heat
The Big Heat was one of the most intense and gritty noir films made
during the genre’s two decade prime. Arriving in the latter half
of that era (roughly 1941-1959), the film displayed the moral ambiguity
and unflinching violence that the neo-noirs of the late twentieth
century would eventually cash in on.
The film follows Dave Bannion, a homicide detective investigating the
apparent suicide of a fellow officer. He doesn’t buy the suicide
story but quickly discovers his superiors don’t appreciate him nosing
around for more answers. He suspects the police brass is corrupt,
serving more to protect the local crime syndicate than to uphold
justice. Bannion is played with by Glenn Ford, one of the great
and most underrated actors of the era.
Lee Marvin is brilliant as Vince Stone, the crime boss’s lieutenant and
lead muscle, and the film displays him as an unbridled sadist.
Gloria Grahame is perfectly cast as Debby Marsh his girlfriend.
Grahame was an actress of tremendous (and underutilized) talent.
The Big Heat is one of the very best of a classic noirs and was
directed by one of the all-time great noir directors Fritz Lang.
Lang was gifted at showing the audience the flawed humanity of his
characters in an era that often depended more on style than deep
character study. Consequently his crime films were deeply felt and
often troubling.
Join us on Thursday November 17 at 7 p.m. to watch The Big Heat as part
of Greenville Public Library's “Third Floor Film Series.” As
always, free popcorn, candy, coffee, and Jones Soda will be
provided. David Nilsen will be leading a brief discussion after
the film.
|
|
|
|
