DVD Mini Review - Crossfire

Crossfire, directed by Edward Dmytryk, is a most interesting film. It is a social commentary that is cloaked in a film noir murder mystery. The film, made in 1947, focuses on anti Semitism and hatred in general.

A man named Samuels (Sam Levene) is murdered. Detective Finlay (Robert Young) is letting no corner left unturned. He suspects that Samuels was murdered by a soldier.
But he questions a few and we are not sure who the murderer is until much later in the film (although there are clues). Included in the cast are Robert Mitchum as Keeley - a soldier who wants to get to the bottom of things, Robert Ryan as Montgomery - one of the last people to see Samuels arrive and Gloria Grahame as Ginny - a woman of rather loose standard who can help clear one of the soldiers.

Crossfire is based on a book written by Richard Brooks (who was also a director). The screenplay is written by John Paxton. There was an interesting documentary on the DVD and I found out the in the book the murdered man was homosexual. But this was 1947 and Hollywood would not make a film on that subject matter. It was daring enough to make one about anti Semitism.

All of the actors are good with Ryan and Grahame nominated for supporting Oscars. The film was also nominated for Best Picture, Director and Screenplay. This was one of Dmytryk's last films in Hollwyood because he was blacklisted. Although not quite as good as Gentlemen's Agreement Crossfire is still a very good film and is a very worthwhile rent. Check it out!