Dead Reckoning (1947)
(John Cromwell, US 1947, 100 min., 35mm)
Overlooked among Humphrey Bogart’s many noirs, this film tempts him with the wiles of Lizabeth Scott as he attempts to solve the disappearance of the man he thought he knew. “Rip” Murdock (Bogart) and Johnny Drake (William Prince), returning from World War II, are surprised to learn that they are to be presented with the Medal of Honor. Sent into a panic, Drake jumps from the train to Washington. Murdock tracks him to Gulf City, Florida, but not in time to find him alive. In order to uncover Johnny’s story, Rip needs to deal with the mysterious Coral Chandler (Scott) and nightclub owner Martinelli (Morris Carnovsky). Director John Cromwell melts into the noir style, using well-placed shadows and clever framing to deliver the mood of the film and offer clues about everyone’s intentions.