The gloves stay on for this episode of the Shadows of Noir podcast, as Marc and Dan stick with the boxing-noir subtype. Also released in 1949, just like The Set-Up from last episode, there is plenty of room for comparing and contrasting the two films. Marc and Dan dive deep into the story’s situations, character choices, and also the larger, deeper questions that the film poses. If you enjoy narrative analysis and dissecting character development, this is one you won’t want to skip. 

Marc and Dan are back for another round as they dissect the 1949 boxing noir, The Set-Up. Expertly crafted by Robert Wise, this drama shows how the passage of time changes so much, yet certain elements of human nature can persist through the ages. With a standout performance from Robert Ryan, and wonderful supporting roles by several others, The Set-Up is a subtly complex story told through excellent acting and beautiful visual compositions. 

For a special Halloween episode, Marc and Dan welcome back Clay McCormack, a cohost of the Rotten Horror Picture Show podcast, to discuss the intersection of film noir and horror. The conversation dives into the visual and thematic connections between the two areas, specifically tracing their roots back to German Expressionism. They also highlight the influence of historical events on cinematic styles and the crossover of talent between horror and noir films. The episode also touches on the evolution of horror and noir, the role of budget constraints in creative filmmaking, and the enduring appeal of these films. Happy Halloween!

Join Marc and Dan as they break down The Narrow Margin, one of the ultimate displays of B-Noir. Efficient narrative progression and character development. Crackerjack dialogue expertly delivered by McGraw and Windsor. And nearly nonstop, heart-pounding suspense, make the film itself feel like a fast-moving train. Beautifully photographed and filled with noir themes and sensibility, it’s amazing to see how good a movie can be on a low budget.

Shadows of Noir is heading to the train yard with Human Desire from 1954. Directed by Fritz Lang and featuring an astounding performance from Gloria Grahame, this film may be a lot more interesting and complex than it initially seems. Join Marc and Dan as they take a deeper look!

From Criss Cross to Christopher Cross, Marc and Dan are continuing on with another heavy hitter. Released in late 1945 and directed/produced by Fritz Lang, Scarlet Street epitomizes many themes and characters that are central to film noir. And with a top-tier cast headlined by Edward G. Robinson, Joan Bennett, and Dan Duryea, it's clear why this one gets so much attention amongst film noir enthusiasts.  

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Criss Cross is a film noir often discussed and appreciated, and for good reason. Directed by the great Robert Siodmak, and starring Burt Lancaster, Yvonne De Carlo, and Dan Duryea, few other movies epitomize the feeling of film noir as well as this one all the way through to the final frame. Join Marc and Dan as they break down this essential from 1949!

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NEXT EPISODE: SCARLET STREET (1945)

Join Marc and Dan as they rewind back to the early years of film noir's development with This Gun for Hire. Released only months after the United States entered WWII and photographed by the great John Seitz, This Gun for Hire is an important film in the noir canon for several reasons. Tune in for an in-depth review of the film and why it matters for all the noir nerds out there!

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Gather around folks, it's time to hear all about Stanton Carlisle, Zeena, and the rest of the Nightmare Alley crew as Marc and Dan move into the darkest corner of film noir's classic era. With its history, performances, visual makeup, character depth, themes, and messages, the original film version of Nightmare Alley truly stands the test of time. You won't want to miss this one!

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From the gritty, hard-boiled story by Cornell Woolrich, to the vision and expert coordination of producer Joan Harrison, to the masterful execution of director Robert Siodmak, Phantom Lady seemed to be destined for film noir history. Join Marc and Dan as they discuss this classic that not only stands tall on its own merits, but also holds an important place in the evolution of film noir's classic era.

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