Laura
A classic noirish mystery with a consummate ensemble of actors. Dana Andrews adroitly plays the detective who delves into the murder of the stunningly beautiful Laura, with whom it seems everyone, including the detective himself, is in love. But Webb steals the show as the titular ingenue's creepily elegant social mentor, Waldo Lydecker. Based on the novel by Vera Caspary. Academy Award Nominations: 4, including Best Director. Academy Awards: Best (Black-and-White) Cinematography.
Member Reviews
One from Hollywood's Golden Age - RobBC
With its somewhat facile plot and curt dialogue this dark and moody tale of a homicide detective who begins to fall in love with the portrait of a murdered woman would be unable to stand up to close scrutiny. Thankfully it doesn’t have to. “Laura” is a magnificently overdone noir classic filmed in rich shades of B&W and featuring all the conventions of that genre which we’ve come to know and love including a hauntingly evocative musical score. Part policier and part shadowy romance, with chills, shocks, and just enough red herrings to keep you busy. Tierney and Andrews are perfectly paired as they slowly seduce each other....never has a simple peck on the mouth held such erotic potential......and the supporting cast is wonderful. They really don’t make ‘em like this anymore.I’m Still In Love - Stitch
With Laura. Ever since she bewitched me when I was eleven, back in ‘44. I didn’t know then that her attraction would linger but viewing it again confirms my observation that some woman will never grow old. Ingrid Bergman, Julie Christie, Katherine Hepburn (and others) come to mind. Amazing what talent and high cheekbones can do.
The title is apt because this is her story, as influenced by the suitors in her orbit. Yes, it has the normal melodramatic approach of the era but not excessively so. . The plot entirely hinges on Laura’s desirability and Gene Tierney carries if off flawlessly. Reading of her insecurity and the traumas it generated in her career (and later in her life) renders it even more impressive. A signature performance by one of the most beautiful Hollywood stars of her time (and in my opinion of all time).
The support is interesting. Vincent Price was just beginning his movie career and here he’s still doing suave suitor characters. Villainy was far in the future. Clifton Webb is the epitome of a New York theatre critic of the day, Alexander Woollcott (then deceased). Dana Andrews adds the hunk quota and his solid (and stolid) approach is exactly what’s needed to contrast with the superficiality of the context. Well chosen, and he underplays appropriately. And it's easy to ignore the suspect realism of their burgeoning romance--this is a film noir version of a fairy tale. And besides, what man wouldn’t fall in love with her?
When the DVD began, I was singularly impressed with the quality of the cinematography, and then read this was its Oscar award category (Webb was also deservedly nominated for Best Supporting Actor). But what do we remember best? The theme song, composed over a single weekend by David Raksin (after receiving his soon-to-be-ex-wife’s 'Dear John' letter). Generated out of sadness, like Lara’s Theme, it endures. Wonderful score.
Very highly recommended, especially for discerning males.Gene Tierney Was Some Dame! - bwod
A film noir that stands out for its original script, the director (Otto Preminger), and fine acting by stars Gene Tierney and Dana Andrews. Vincent Price is outstanding, as well, playing a southern gentleman with an unsavoury past. It's a who-dunnit with a big twist, worthy of CSI. One and a half thumbs up!
Member Reviews
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One from Hollywood's Golden Age - RobBC
With its somewhat facile plot and curt dialogue this dark and moody tale of a homicide detective who begins to fall in love with the portrait of a murdered woman would be unable to stand up to close scrutiny. Thankfully it doesn’t have to. “Laura” is a magnificently ...I’m Still In Love - Stitch
With Laura. Ever since she bewitched me when I was eleven, back in ‘44. I didn’t know then that her attraction would linger but viewing it again confirms my observation that some woman will never grow old. Ingrid Bergman, Julie Christie, Katherine Hepburn ...Gene Tierney Was Some Dame! - bwod
A film noir that stands out for its original script, the director (Otto Preminger), and fine acting by stars Gene Tierney and Dana Andrews. Vincent Price is outstanding, as well, playing a southern gentleman with an unsavoury past. It's a who-dunnit with a ...