4 Must Watch Underrated Film Noir Classics

#filmnoir #classicmovies #1940s
These are four of my favorite film noirs. Although, they are mostly underrated and overlooked they deserve a wider audience. Featuring dynamic performances from stars like John Garfield, Dan Duryea, Evelyn Keys, Veronica Lake and Alan Ladd, these noirs are hardboiled cynical and will leave with the feeling that the world is out to get you.
The Black Angel 00:28
The Breaking Point 02:04
The Prowler 03:55
This Gun For Hire 05:26
For 4 more MUST WATCH NOIRS check out PART TWO ➡️ • 4 Must Watch Underrate...
Noir analysis playlist ➡️ • Film Noir and Suspense
You can watch the film noirs mentioned in this video for free at the links below⬇️
The Black Angel (1946)
• Black Angel (1946) Fil...
The Breaking Point (1950)
archive.org/details/thebreaki...
The Prowler (1951)
archive.org/details/theprowle...
This Gun For Hire (1942)
archive.org/details/this-gun-...
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[@CinemaCities1978]

So for some reason I kept referring to Van Heflin's character in The Prowler as Wes and his name is Webb. If anyone gets around to checking out any of the films let me know in the comments below. I'd love to know what you think! Oh, and once again, The Breaking Point is a definite MUST WATCH. 🖤The Black Angel (1946) kzbin.info/www/bejne/nZjdpHmdj5eihK8 🛳The Breaking Point (1950) archive.org/details/thebreakingpoint1950_202004 🪟The Prowler (1951) archive.org/details/theprowler1951usadirjosephloseyfeaturingvanheflinevelynkeyesfilmnoirfullmovie 💥This Gun For Hire (1942) archive.org/details/this-gun-for-hire-1942 Like the music? Here's a link to some of the moody jazz I use in some of these videos🎶: share.epidemicsound.com/l84tue/?playlist=d2qs5fkf8c2rofu41l0fnz90sxn918bk if you love classic Hollywood you should subscribe to the free cinema cities newsletter 📰screenspectator.substack.com?sd=pf If you're loving these videos consider supporting the channel at: ☕www.buymeacoffee.com/cinemacities ⭐ patreon.com/CinemaCities For 4 more MUST WATCH NOIRS check out PART TWO ➡️kzbin.info/www/bejne/m2XCioqJipd9rc0 Noir analysis palylist ➡️kzbin.info/aero/PLn_N29RFy3rrw-oe8vt0xfQMlKz22QA1o

[@KRYPTOS_K5]

I don't know who you are. But... .. Here is an excellent text. Excellent choose of exemplar repertoire. And here is also an implicit excellent comprehension about the essence of noir. Brasil

[@oppothumbs1]

@@KRYPTOS_K5 All of these movies will cost us to rent or buy. Feels fishy; sounds suspicious. This Gun For Hire has a good soundtrack by Bruce Springsteen.

[@KRYPTOS_K5]

@@oppothumbs1 In what sense does it sound suspicious or fishy? You might check the commentaries and rankings in the Encyclopedia of cinema movie or other traditional sources or even scholars because the (old) cinema is an art. I ought to cite 200 titles of US noir and I bet that more than half would coincide with your own selection. Noir assessment is almost universal as Casablanca -- there is an almost universal criterion of quality and typicality for authentic Noir (1940-1958). Brasil

[@briankorbelik2873]

@@KRYPTOS_K5 Then there are Neo-Noir classics like Chinatown.

[@Porsche996driver]

Great work - instant Sub! 👏🏼

[@celinhabr1]

This Gun for Hire 1942 cannot be considered underrated, it's a well-known and respected classic noir, but i agree that it's great, and so are the other 3. I have seen them too and they are great.

[@KRYPTOS_K5]

I endorse your correction. Brasil

[@celinhabr1]

@@KRYPTOS_K5 Sim, é bem conhecido e recomendado.

[@MisterSplendy]

Dan Dureyea is one of my all time faves. He had it all and could do any role.

[@thomasbest8599]

You may not agree my favorite role he did was in Night Passage and of course Winchester’73. I know there’s more

[@Blaqjaqshellaq]

He was in THE WOMAN IN THE WINDOW and SCARLET STREET, with Edward G. Robinson and Joan Bennett.

[@MisterSplendy]

@@thomasbest8599 Yup! I have them both, Blu-Ray. Amazing.

[@MisterSplendy]

@@Blaqjaqshellaq Oh he was great in WITW and Scarlet Street. He played scoundrels very well.

[@doggeelikesit9849]

I like him best as a heel.

[@barbaraburgoyne8359]

The Dark Corner is one of the best film noirs I've ever seen it's totally underrated it stars Mark Stephens and Lucille Ball and it has a wonderful story line and all the schtick...I recommend It highly

[@LoranHarding]

The Dark Corner one of my favs. Lucy had some young female glamour left here. ALL gone by the time of I Love Lucy. Just a drudge in a tiny apartment, albeit with a fireplace, a door at an angle, and a back door, all foreign to NY apartment dwellers. I'll watch all of these for sure.

[@davidahrens2841]

My favorite line in this great film Is when Galt tells the sales lady to 'Wrap it up' This is one of my favorite Film Noirs Lucille was a knock out!

[@LoranHarding]

Harding here again: Since we are mentioning favorite Film Noirs, I highly recommend "711 Ocean Drive" from 1950. Superb. Technology of 1950, how a certain criminal enterprise worked, organized crime, oh just juicy. You are seeing California in 1950. The female protagonist was just a stunner. Her face got her into the movies! Some of the action even takes place at a major industrial installation, something they liked to put in Noirs in the 40s and 50s. If you have to buy the DVD you won't feel cheated.

[@LoranHarding]

I added a blurb about "711 Ocean Drive" and now it is gone. See comments on KZbin about. See esp. the trailer. Gem of a movie.

[@barbaraburgoyne8359]

@@davidahrens2841 I loved the entire dialog in the gallery... I loved the entire dialog in this fast-paced film...

[@bobbylee9727]

Veronica Lake and John Garfield can make a so/so film noire movie into a classic: they had "it."

[@CinemaCities1978]

I watched Garfield last night in an early 40s b movie called The Fallen Sparrow and he’s so electric when he’s on screen. He demands all your attention he definitely hat IT. Same with Lake. Also, there’s something about her line delivery that is really modern. Her performances really hold up.

[@missmaggie2620]

Absolutely, Garfield was a brilliant actor, but he also had an undeniable, understated sexual "heat" that came naturally.

[@bobbylee9727]

@@missmaggie2620 as a guy, i felt the sexual heat of Veronica Lake the same as you felt the heat of John Garfield: so the "it" to which i referred was sexuality...but with personality and charisma.

[@KRYPTOS_K5]

@@CinemaCities1978 It is not a so particular issue from the Fallen Sparrow itself (which is a Shakespeare quotation) as it implies or resembles to. You can observe the opposite trend in the post modernist today's cinema when sometimes you get an outstanding screenplay and bad actors by default. Actors in the past had verisimilitude and undeniable unique personality. Modern actors and actresses are McDonalds actors. They are standard hamburgers without the salt of truth or the pepper of some genuine doubt. Why so? I don't know exactly the reasons but the causes probably have deep roots in our today's day to day life experience and a certain disdain for the real versus simulacrum in terms of the current valued aesthetics... Sorry for my poor English. Brasil

[@monto39]

@@bobbylee9727 Yeah Lake definitely had that in spades in This Gun for Hire. Generally I'm not the biggest fan of the era where women (girls really, she was just 19) dressed so glamorously to check the mail - just kinda too idealized. But her part in that movie just won me

[@robertosalto1962]

I have to thank you for recommend "the breaking point", that final shot will stay with me forever.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I am so glad you watched it. It's finding a new audience and it deserves it.

[@fergus1948]

I just watched This Gun for Hire and you were not wrong. Alan Ladd and Veronica Lake were magnetic! What a movie! Thank you - I’ll check out the others as soon as I can!

[@CinemaCities1978]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it! When you watch THIS GUN FOR HIRE, you are watching two stars being born.

[@birdsdaword]

I love Alan Ladd!!! He is so gorgeous. He can sing and dance, too. So graceful. What a lovely voice. I've listened to all his radio shows. And This Gun for Hire is my favorite movie. Also, I read Graham Greene's books This Gun for Hire and also The Ministry of Fear. The book, This Gun for Hire is so very very different from the movie. A Lonely Place is also very very different from the movie. The Ministry of Fear is similar to the movie. Nightmare Alley is also different from the movie but not quite so much. It has been enlightening reading the books.

[@maureentuohy8672]

Film Noir is my favorite genre of cinema. I could watch it everyday. Dan Duryea is my favorite actor of noir. He played such wonderful villains. Funny enough in real life he was a wonderful husband and father a great guy. PS My Mom was in love with Allen Lad

[@Sonny_V]

Duryea was also Great in "Thunder Bay" Offshore Oil guys in big trouble with Cajun Fisherman

[@ThePlataf]

Agree 100%. Dan did slimy menace to perfection! I did a degree in film studies, and one entire semester was Film Noir of the 40s. It was utter heaven, watching these masterpieces, then writing essays on them! My parents were thrilled that I loved the films that they'd enjoyed in their young days.

[@mariank7744]

My favourite genre too ! All the best from Marian in UK

[@dennislalka7965]

While Duryea is good...he is not remotely close to John Garfield...not close!

[@BarryMagrew]

One other that should make the list is “I Wake Up Screaming” with Victor Mature and Laird Cregar. The director, H. Bruce Humberstone, was mainly known for Charlie Chan and Tarzan movies. This one is a stunner.

[@dpf5939]

You forgot to mention the female lead Betty Grable. One of her two dramas she made at Fox. She did good in the role for a musical-comedy star.

[@tonyclifton265]

Dan Duryea was also in another great but underrated film noir: "Ministry of Fear"

[@jerrygoldfarb7739]

based on a classic novel by Graham Greene and directed by the great Fritz Lang

[@SueUTube]

I will suffer through crappy TV just to watch Duryea.

[@eddie12454]

Yes I'm a Dan Duryea fan too. He was great in Westerns.

[@MothGirl007]

@@SueUTube He's totally worth it.

[@josebenito15]

It's just really great how KZbin has become our"Cinematheque". To see an outstanding film like "The Prowler" for free it's just wonderful. I saw this Losey's film in a cinema some years ago and I was thrilled. A real Masterpiece to be seen here, on KZbin 🎥🎥🎥

[@CinemaCities1978]

I love that aspect of KZbin. It's a great place for films to find their audiences. Some of these films would otherwise be very hard to track down, but here if you're looking for something relatively obscure or forgotten you just might find it.

[@user-oj8uj3oc4y]

You were absolutely on the money about Garfield and The Breaking Point. Both were a minor revelation. Even though Hemingway's original novel was a bit of a sprawling disjointed mess, The Breaking Point caught the spirit of it, cut away the literary nice-to-haves and left the audience with the heart of it. It's got his 'Iceberg' style down pat; everything lean and taut and not an ounce of fat on it anywhere. And Garfield did it short, crisp justice, the way it had to be done. Thanks for the recommendation

[@goonbelly5841]

I have watched 3 of the 4 films you mentioned. A favorite underrated film noir of mine is Cry Danger (1951), starring Dick Powell, Rhonda Fleming, Richard Erdman and William Conrad. The acting in this short action packed film noir thriller is superb. This film was restored in 2011.

[@KindaLikeWater]

"This Gun for Hire" is one of my favorite classics. "The Prowler" looks very promising. Thanks!

[@dennislalka7965]

Breaking Point is the best of the lot...not even close!

[@bobbybecker80]

I love noir and had already seen these except for This Gun which I'll watch tonight. You have impeccable taste and I agree about Breaking Point.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thanks so much for watching! I hope you enjoyed Ladd and Lake in This Gun for Hire. I think Ladd's charisma is off the charts in that film. As for The Breaking Point, it has a permanent place in my top 10 favorites.

[@harrihaffi2713]

😂 that’s the only one I’ve seen of these!

[@jamesallard7223]

Thank you so much for introducing me to The Breaking Point. I took your advice and sought it out, and it is a truly great piece of cinema.

[@CinemaCities1978]

You are so welcome! I’m thrilled that you enjoyed it.

[@E.L.RipleyAtNostromo]

I loved John Garfield. He got so shafted by HUAC and McCarthy, and tried to do the honorable thing rather than going along with the tyranny, and the incredible stress from the ordeal ended up killing him, and he wasn't even 40 when he died. How senseless and tragic when you think of the films he could have made in the next 40 years. I also liked him a lot in "Gentleman's Agreement" with Gregory Peck from 1947. I just watched him again last week in "Air Force" with Harry Carey, directed by Howard Hawks from 1943. What a great story. Likewise the beautiful Veronica Lake who was so petite (she was only 4' 11"!) and sultry to me. She went on to appear with Ladd again in "The Glass Key" later in '42 and then "The Blue Dahlia" in 1946. I think my favorite film with her was with Joel McCrea ("Tales of the Texas Rangers" on radio) in "Sullivan's Travels" from 1941; watch her closely, she was actually 6 months pregnant when that was filmed. I gather she had a rep as being difficult to work with, and later some drinking problems when she was older, and tragically died when she was only 51. A shame. I'm 67, but have always been a huge fan of the older Hollywood movies, whether they were A-list or not. Most have nuances and character development and storytelling far better than the majority of modern films. I've only seen one of these 4, so thank you so much for the reference! New subscriber here based on this excellent content. 👍

[@krl97a]

Ironically HUAC was cofounded in the 1930s by an actual Soviet spy, congressman Samuel Dickstein (Democrat, NY). Then its purpose was to pursue phantom "fascist" conspiracies on Wall Street, a way to deflect blame from FDR for his failed economic policies (late 30s recession within a Depression). Later it went after some real bad guys, including the KKK and yes, communists. Senator Joe McCarthy had nothing to do with the House committee. Garfield may or may not have been a communist. He certainly denied it. But he also likely committed perjury when he claimed to not know any, since his wife had been a communist and he traveled in communist associated circles for years as a far left activist. Either way at least the communist infiltration was a very real threat, as the founding of HUAC itself by the traitor Dickstein illustrates. Funny how things can turn around. Did Garfield die from the HUAC hounding? Maybe, maybe not. He did have a heart condition bad enough that it blocked him from military service in WW2. Hard to prove, but people will believe what they want to believe.

[@dmh0667ify]

Too bad McCarthy was right, though, and the Communists they tried to stop, in those days, have now completely taken over America.

[@robjones2408]

John was a class act. "Body And Soul" was a massive influence on "Raging Bull". He was destroyed by the HUAC's demented drive to root out Communists, which put him in an early grave. What a shame, he didn't sell out and it cost him his career and then his life.

[@Whippets]

Not sure how underrated they are as film noir, but two of my favorites star Stirling Hayden, The Asphalt Jungle and The Killing. I never pass up an opportunity to watch either no matter how many times I've seen them.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Those are two of my favorites!

[@jimgeorge3273]

​@@CinemaCities1978 my favorite film noir flick stars Glen Ford in "the big heat"! Have you seen it?!

[@herculesrockefeller8969]

I agree about Asphalt Jungle, if it’s on I MUST watch!

[@Whippets]

@@herculesrockefeller8969 Agreed, great cast, great story, top notch acting, great ending and a very young Marylin Monroe, what more could anyone ask for? lol

[@dbarker7794]

The Killing is fantastic. What an ending! Made by a young fellow named Kubrick.

[@LGSlaw]

Excellent video - truly underrated and obscure films. I haven't seen any and you sell them all, especially The Breaking Point. Can't wait to watch them!

[@CinemaCities1978]

Yes! I am on a one woman mission to get everyone to watch The Breaking Point. But, all of the films in this video really are worth a watch. They feature some not so well remembered stars like Evelyn Keyes, Juano Hernandez and June Vincent that give performances modern audiences can really enjoy.

[@MoreMovies4u]

Great choices, CC. Very nicely put together video👌🎬

[@CinemaCities1978]

thank you! once again, I know I sound like a broken record at this point, you have to watch The Breaking Point!

[@MoreMovies4u]

@@CinemaCities1978 i will, thanks for the link! 👋

[@VamshiOhgs]

Thanks for all these wonderful recommendation, the passion with which you talk about these films is infectious, gotta give these titles a watch!

[@CinemaCities1978]

Yes, please watch them! They are all really enjoyable.

[@SallySallySallySally]

Thanks for posting. I was unaware of a couple of these and will check them out. You're right about "The Breaking Point." The final shot is one of the most depressing scenes I've seen in any movie.

[@davejones732]

Really well done. 'Out Of The Past ' is one of my favorites.Keep them coming.

[@CinemaCities1978]

thank you. I will definitely keep them coming.

[@Chiller01]

Just found your channel and subbed. I’m a sucker for old Noir films. I must say I’m reluctant to watch the Breaking Point because i don’t know if I need such tragedy right now but we’ll see. I really enjoyed Alan Ladd and Veronica Lake in This Gun for Hire and enjoyed the Prowler as well. The House Committee on Un-American Activities era particularly in the 50’s was a sad era. Dalton Trumbo, John Garfield, Lena Horne, Dashiell Hammett and so many more were irreparably affected by those misguided Congressmen.

[@vittoriodipaola1375]

Very sad era

[@dennislalka7965]

Watch the great John Garfield work his magic as an actor!

[@spectrum7virkeytroni]

I haven't seen This Gun for Hire since the '80s. I first learned about it from Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid. Then some years later, I saw it in a video rental store, rented it, watched it, and loved it. Thanks for reminding me of it.

[@bb1111116]

Thanks for the recommendations. I watched bits of each movie and then I saw all of “This Gun for Hire”. Alan Ladd and Veronica Lake were terrific.

[@nnvincent3]

A great under rated film noir is, "Impact" from 1949. It stars Brian Donlevy, Ella Raines, Anna May Wong, Helen Walker and Charles Coburn. I'm a big fan of Film Noir and this one is my favorite.

[@davidwinet5607]

Very impressive rundown. You really made me want to see all of them. Thank you thank you!

[@user-kt2on3zc1t]

Thank you for bringing these great films to light. I’ve been lucky to see three of these. “Breaking Point” is aptly named. The ending ripped my heart from my chest, a feeling you described perfectly. Two notes: Never saw Garfield so good. And Laird Cregar in “Gun” a must-see. Died way too young. Can’t wait to see more.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I think The Breaking Point is Garfield's best performance. I love him so many other films but that one is his crowning achievement.

[@dennislalka7965]

One of Garfields best...but there are more noirs...Force of Evil...The Fallen Sparrow...Body and Soul...the man was a noir machine....the very best!

[@beatleboy83]

Just watched "The Black Angle" from start to finish. It was a great treat! Totally unexpected plot twist at the end.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@joeblow2069]

Just watched Breaking point and it is a truly great film. Incredible directing by Michael Curtiz and John Garfield's performance is Oscar caliber. The 1944 film is great but this one surpasses it in my opinion.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I share your opinion.I think this version is operating on an entirely different and superior level.

[@tammyphillips2563]

On your recommendation, I just watched The Breaking Point. The last shot with that little boy, standing there, looking for his dad, no one comforting him, was so sad. Excellent performances by all.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I am so happy that you watched it! It's one of my favorites and that ending leaves me speechless every time I watch it. It's so brutal and heat breaking. Bravo to all involved.

[@monto39]

That tore me up

[@Jomartproducts]

Why would ruin the movie for others? Comment should be deleted or a spoiler alert added.

[@broderickwallis25]

Spoiler alert !!!😮 OOps... to late😢

[@jenniferahmad]

Much appreciated, loved your summaries. Thank you for pointing me to some great films I wasn't aware of

[@CinemaCities1978]

you're welcome! I hope you get a chance to watch some of the ones mentioned in this video. If you do, please come back and let me know what you think.

[@TheBearAspirin]

I saw "The Killers" (1946) when I was a teenager and became enamored with film noir. At the time I had no idea it was a specific genre. I just thought: 1940s B/W crime film. LOL Fortunate that San Francisco has a Film Noir Festival so I've been lucky to have seen all four of these films. And yes, "The Breaking Point" is amazing.

[@Bobalicious]

I've seen "This Gun for Hire" and you're correct. It's a star maker. I look forward to seeing the other three. Thanks for the recommendations.

[@donmoore7785]

I have not seen two of these and I want to now. The other two were awesome. Thank you for what you do!

[@benskelly8892]

Good choices all. I am especially fond of Black Angel and am amazed it is largely unknown to most movie fans. Thanks for the video.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thanks for watching! Yes, Black Angel is a real hidden gem that I hope more people discover.

[@7BI0Vx4]

1.) House on 92nd Street (1945) 2.) Kiss of Death (1947) 3.) No Orchids for Miss Blandish (US release: Black Dice. British noir) (1948) 3.) Kiss Me Deadly (1955)

[@monto39]

+++ for House on 92nd St! I totally dig spy movies where the Nazis are the enemy. Louis de Rochemont produced 3 of my all time faves - 92nd St., 13 Rue Madelleine and Walk East on Beacon. By the last one he'd moved on to the Cold War and the Commies were the enemy. I got a thing for propoganda films

[@7BI0Vx4]

@@monto39 Agreed.

[@mikegreen2942]

Thanks for this video. I haven't heard of The Prowler or Black Angel, so will seek them out. I recently watched Breaking Point on Criterion blu ray and I do think it is an understated masterpiece. Curtiz was such a great director, and I think it is one of his best. Superb photography and a great central performance from Garfield.

[@sandrasanders706]

All true!!

[@TheloniousCube]

Thank you so much for this whole series - it's started me on a binge watch of all the noir films i can find and I'm enjoying them immensely - great channel!

[@CinemaCities1978]

I love hearing from viewers who discover new films from the channel! A lot of these films are hidden gems and it's been a pleasure introducing them to a wider audience.

[@TheloniousCube]

@@CinemaCities1978 Yes, some of these I knew, but others not and you've persuaded me to rewatch a lot of stuff I saw 10-15 years ago. Maybe I'm feeling that post-Covid is analogous to post-war? In any case I'm loving the noir world - thanks again!

[@willsmith9726]

Thanks for including the links. I wouldn't have known where to find these otherwise.

[@CinemaCities1978]

You're welcome!

[@chrisgillard6129]

Thanks for posting. These old films are true gems. You've got me hooked. Just watched The Breaking Point. I see what you mean. I presume if and when Harry gets healed that he will help out the quiet one. Good guys always have to try and set things straight. Hemmingway sure could write.

[@frankmachin5438]

This Gun For Hire is a bloody classic! Love your channel. It’s the channel i would’ve created if i had the time, drive, talent….

[@nickimontie]

Just found your channel! Love it and looking forward to watching your back issues!

[@williamisley1880]

I watched The Breaking Point last night. It is an excellent movie and the last scene is heartbreaking when the camera pans out at the very end. Thank you for making me aware of it. By the way I recommended this video and Cinema Cities in general on my Facebook page. Keep up the good work!

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thank you so much for sharing the channel. I'm so glad you watched The Breaking Point! That final scene broke me the first time I watched it.

[@williamisley1880]

@@CinemaCities1978 I also thought that Phyllis Thaxter did a wonderful job portraying the loving and faithful, but somewhat insecure (Don't dye your hair to look like Patricia Neal!) wife.

[@avvocato5543]

Thanx for the links. I'd seen the Black Angel and the Prowler previously. Both great!

[@jonathan-qs1xd]

we watched breaking point last night thanks to your recommendations and it was fantastic, thank you! will watch the others soon

[@CinemaCities1978]

I'm glad you enjoyed it! It's a powerhouse film and Garfield gives one of his all time best performances.

[@moyabrady6917]

Thank you for those wonderful suggestions and links!

[@CinemaCities1978]

I hope you enjoy them! Don't forget to come back and let me know what you think of the films.

[@jimgeorge3273]

​@@CinemaCities1978 this gun for hire is one of my all time favorite films period. You can see why it made Alan Ladd an instant movie star. His daughter is Cheryl Ladd is his daughter. She played one of Charlie's angels in the 70s TV show.

[@juancarlosmateo8453]

Great narration and plot descriptions. Will watch more in the future.

[@CinemaCities1978]

thanks!

[@luisdevega6075]

Thanks for the video, I'll be checking out all four, especially Breaking Point. I had no idea there was another To Have and Have Not adaptation so this is a real treat. Out of the eight million channels on KZbin, yours is the only one I'm subscribed to!

[@CinemaCities1978]

I'm glad you've been inspired to check out The Breaking Point it is definitely a must-see, it's one of my favorites. John Garfield is firing on all cylinders and I really think this is Michael Curtiz's best film. And yeah, I was pretty surprised to find out there was another To Have and Have Not adaptation too! It's always exciting to discover new films and share them with others. I'm honored that out of all the channels on KZbin, you've chosen to subscribe to mine! I appreciate it and will keep creating content that I hope you'll enjoy!

[@rick5549]

Excellent list. All spot on. Thank you.

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thanks for watching!

[@larrywest42]

I absolutely concur on The Breaking Point. A masterpiece of the genre. Watching Garfield's character all but forced down a dark dead end, with excellent acting all around, is captivating.

[@wW-ml1vw]

such great recommendations. Nowhere else did these show up.I hate the YT AI but recommending you was spot in. Never seen these and they are well worth watching.Just watched 3 of them

[@CinemaCities1978]

Cool! I'm glad I was able to introduce you to some new noirs. Did you get to THE BREAKING POINT? What did you think?

[@photopro28]

Brilliant, thanks for the recommendations!! 👍🎯

[@CinemaCities1978]

You're welcome!

[@nsn73]

Thank you for posting this! My husband and I are fans of film noir, there are 2 we have not seen. We’ll watch one tonight!

[@CinemaCities1978]

You're welcome. Hope you enjoy it!

[@emilywhite7261]

03:19 - God, you were not kidding about that, devastating. Now to watch the other three films. Thanks for this video x

[@CinemaCities1978]

Absolutely heartbreaking.

[@dbarker7794]

Thanks for the reminder to watch these four great movies again.

[@Edgy01]

The Black Angel was new to me, as well as The Prowler. Good stuff! Thanks for the tips and the links. Film Noir was a great formula for movies. Relatively inexpensive to produce, excellent actors, outstanding writing. No one can write anymore.

[@jamesroth8837]

Always on the lookout for noir I haven't seen. Thanks. Noir is film poetry.

[@CinemaCities1978]

You're welcome!

[@roberthayes9842]

These films were my childhood during the 60s mostly on Sunday afternoon's, pure artistic masterpieces

[@fredsalfa]

Thanks for that I’ve been waiting for recommendations of great Film Noir that I haven’t seen before

[@CinemaCities1978]

Great! I hope you enjoy these selections.

[@fredsalfa]

@@CinemaCities1978 Just saw the Breaking Point what a great movie

[@WMatthewRogers]

Thank you for your wonderfully insightful and clear exposition. This is a very nice piece of work.

[@CinemaCities1978]

You're welcome!

[@eronavbj]

I wouldn’t list THIS GUN FOR HIRE as an underrated or under-the-radar film. It’s one of the classic film noir choices, as witnessed by its inclusion in Steve Martin's great homage, Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid.

[@Oblitus1]

There is also brief footage of This Gun For Hire shown in the neo-noir film L.A. Confidential. Thanks for reminding me to see Dead Men again. . .it's been way too long since I last saw it.

[@DodgeDartSongs]

Thank you for these recommendations. I love noir and I love your videos, too.

[@CinemaCities1978]

you're welcome! I'm so glad you're enjoying the channel!

[@peterhall5070]

WHEW! I just watched "The Breaking Point". What an excellent film. I was glued to the screen. Certainly no punches pulled in this film and it's no exaggeration that the ending is devastating. Just breaks your heart. Surprising that this ending was allowed considering it's from a major studio. The usual format with a dark picture was to produce a happy, or at least hopeful ending, no matter how impractical it might seem to the story that preceded it. This film is stark reality. That said, it definitely makes it a better film. I haven't seen "To Have and Have Not" in many years. I'll have to give it a viewing and check out the differences in the story. Many thanks for posting links to these films so us fans can view them. 👍👍👍

[@CinemaCities1978]

The ending was hopeful for Harry and his family. Not so much for Wesley's family.

[@dennislalka7965]

No comparison between the two movies...mostly because of the great John Garfield!

[@nubius]

Thank you, as a long time noir fan I really appreciate your picks and interest in other classic films. I've subbed and look forward to future recommendations ^_^

[@CinemaCities1978]

I'm glad you found the channel! I will have 4 more underrated classics for you very soon.

[@KRYPTOS_K5]

Excellent text. Excellent chosen repertoire. Excellent comprehension about the essence of noir. Brasil

[@mrvic9395]

OOoooOO links to watch for free thats for me. Thanks for the list

[@davidhull1481]

I’ve seen The Prowler here on KZbin, but thanks for the links to view them all.

[@CinemaCities1978]

You're welcome. I hope you enjoy them!

[@RabbiSteve]

Good choices all. Thanks for doing this and sharing it with us.

[@brucerobbins6528]

It's prettty dark,maybe dark gray, nor noir, but "Too Late for Tears" with Dan Duryea and Lizbeth Scott is an excellent drama with great acting from Scott and Duryea. The two work as a great duo, dueling off each other, line after line. It is thrilling to see them work, and the plot is quite interesting, about money, of course, but who will get it Scott or Durea. Scott sucks him into her plot more deeply, and he says, "I'm in so deep, and I can't get out!" In their first meeting, Scott: "What can I call you besides stupid?" Duryea, "Stpid's alright if you don't wear it out"./ That kind of jousting, just makes this deadly plot, intriguing. The characters are well drawn, and change as the plot unfolds.

[@paulswords3705]

Too late for tears is a great movie. Not one that is normally mentioned as one of greats.perhaps the greatest of the unsung film noirs. Lizabeth Scott's character is the epitome of a femme fatale. Probably the coldest of them all

[@brucerobbins6528]

This is one of my favorite films of all time. I have watced it severay times, and cannot find a flaw. As perfect as a drama can get!!! @@paulswords3705

[@bobbyj9877]

Too Late For Tears is a favorite of mine. Don't forget Don DeFore and Kristine Miller in supporting roles. It's Scott at her manipulative best.

[@brucerobbins6528]

Yes, it's a two some movie..DeForest and Miller are the 2nd great duo. Like "North by Northwest" there is never a dull moment in the film For me also, it is one of my favorite films. It is never boring. I've lost count of how many times I've watched it!!! @@bobbyj9877

[@mrpotter315]

Great stuff. I look forward to watching the films. Thanks!

[@patrickwelch620]

Thanks for the great ideas!

[@CinemaCities1978]

You are so welcome!

[@Zed-fq3lj]

Thank you for your wonderful recommendations! Just found out about your channel. Noir movies of 40s and 50s are something special indeed! Subscribed!

[@CinemaCities1978]

Thank you for watching and subscribing!

[@joebullington4997]

Thank you so much for some great films to add to my watch list. :)

[@genuinsanity]

Thank You ! The Breaking Point is superb.... thanks for the links provided.

[@CinemaCities1978]

You're welcome! I 100% agree, The Breaking Point is a fantastic film. Garfield and Curtiz firing on both cylinders.

[@bbrown5463]

My all time favorite type of movies!!!! Could watch these all day long! Thanks. 😊😊😊

[@CinemaCities1978]

you're welcome

[@kenneththompson8933]

Great list of "film gems"that I haven't seen. Just watched The Prowler which was an excellent film.

[@bradhansen2065]

Well done, at recognizing and pointing out films that can be identified as True “Film Noir. “ Today the term is often blurred with well made black and white films. But you nailed it. Never felt so bad for so many would be hero’s all at once.

[@f.danielsomrack8415]

Well done!! Thank you...

[@Michaela1942]

Interestingly, we just watched The Black Angel last night on KZbin. Great film. My only problem with this review of "underrated film noir" is the inculsion of This Gun for Hire which is one of the most well known of the genre.

[@TaxTheChurches.]

Thank you for the links.

[@CinemaCities1978]

you're welcome

[@dennisdaily5463]

WELL DONE... WELL DONE. Great to hear a young lady, your age, who not only is a good writer but can enunciate, not mumble and speaks at a classic, understandable pace. Great. More, More, More. Dennis

[@frederickcombs8661]

Thanks for letting me know about the archive. I watched DESPERATION and it was VERY good. If you have not seen it, it is worth seeing. You have such a fine eye and great analysis of the material. I couldn't have done a better job myself... and I am a very picky viewer of film.

[@CinemaCities1978]

You're welcome. While I'm not a picky viewer (I will admit that I watch a lot of trash), I do like to point out some hidden gems others might appreciate.

[@LTPXQ]

You were absolutely right about the punch to your soul about Breaking Point

[@dizbang3073]

I've seen 'em all but the first one, The Black Angel. Now it's on my list.

[@robs9237]

Thank u so much for this video

[@CinemaCities1978]

you're welcome!

[@verotexier5475]

Thank you very much for these posts and comments , very good ! veronique

[@susanrike7476]

Just watched "The Black Angel." Was surprised by how good it is. Dan Duryea was terrific as the sensitive alcoholic. Peter Lorre was creepy as always. Even June Vincent (totally unfamiliar to me) was very good as the caring wife of the convicted man. It has so much atmosphere, largely filmed in L.A. nightclubs where danger lurks. I strongly recommend it. Totally agree that this film noir is underrated and should have a wider audience.

[@herculesrockefeller8969]

I have loved The Breaking Point fir years, because it has the great John Garfield, the great Patricia O’Neal, and wonderful Juano Hernandez.

[@RK-jp4xe]

I will be checking some of these out soon. Only have so much time 😂😢. Thank you for advising to watch The Breaking Point instead of the Bogart version. Also, This Gun for Hire sounds great.

[@CinemaCities1978]

The Breaking Point is one of my favorite noirs and John Garfield is

[@ricaug50]

I just recently found your channel and find it to be fabulously fascinating! You have real insight into film, especially film noir. I'm going to press that subscribe button and then check out what else you have. As for the movies shown here, I have heard of them all but the only one I've seen is "Breaking Point", and only your critique of that movie and John Garfield's acting talent was spot on. It's been quite a while since I seen it, after your review, I look forward to seeing it again sometime soon.

[@obviouslyurnotagolfer148]

Those are great recommendations! I haven't heard of any of them before. 🙏

[@brianedwards7142]

Thanks for the pointers. Neal and Ladd are favourites of mine but they all look like their worth a watch.

[@brianedwards7142]

They're. My bad.

[@AndyMangele]

Thanks a lot for your recommendations! I wasn't familiar with "The Prowler", which was a real treat. "Black Angel" I discovered not so long ago by mere coincidence while browsing for Peter Lorre stuff.

[@CinemaCities1978]

I'm glad you enjoyed the Prowler!

[@JohnChalmers617]

An excellent underrated and hard to see film noir is 1947's "Ride the Pink Horse" . The film was directed by and also starred Robert Montgomery. The great character actor Tomas Gomez gives and unforgettable performance as an owner of a small carnival in Mexico . I have only seen it a couple of times the last being in 1985 but I stillrecall how great it is . Far better than Montgomery's directorial debut of 1946's " The Lady in the Lake" . Although I love that film as well ,warts and all .

[@CinemaCities1978]

I also prefer Ride the Pink Horse over The Lady in the Lake.

[@kenvelickoff4275]

John Garfield deserves much more love

[@shermano2153]

Body snd Soul. I think he does. He just died too earlier.

[@moonriverdiver]

His funeral had a record turnout and in particular Force of Evil is increasingly admired. Not only for Garfield's driving performance but the amazing script and direction - by another Blacklist victim - though it didn't kill him. Here on YT but merits the Arrow BR with its great extras

[@vittoriodipaola1375]

Most of us love him

[@dennislalka7965]

@@shermano2153 No he does not get top recognition...he is the best film noir actor of them all!

[@charlesiragui2473]

Great suggestions! Breaking Point has some of the best dialogue of any noir and a deep, multiracial cast. Hardboiled realism. Black Angel has a lot of charm in its lead couple, and is true noir heart break.

[@CinemaCities1978]

The Breaking Point is one of my favorite noirs, and I just love Dan Duryea so much in "Black Angel". He's so sympathetic and is out to do the right thing, only to learn the brutal truth in the end. It's fantastic.

[@charlesiragui2473]

@@CinemaCities1978 He's the doomed noir hero. But this noir is largely redemptive. Duryea's artistic work with the unattainable, pure blonde housewife, his gentlemanly love for her, give it a kind of positive end to a loser life. She likes him but she's not interested, we could have told him that. I also enjoyed the comedic aspect of the movie, the relationship between Peter Lorre and his burly, bullied #2, a kind of strange, sadistic but not disturbing night club cliche. I also liked their music, actually enjoyable.

[@davidahrens2841]

One of my favorite F.N. Which is vastly underrated is 'The Chase' with Robert Cummings and Michele Morgan Wow, what a sad beautiful lady And, it has a happy ending!!

[@CinemaCities1978]

I love The Chase! I usually don't like Robert Cummings, but I like him in that one.

[@davidahrens2841]

Not really a fan either Except in this movie Hated him in 'The Carpet Baggers' He was also a pilot And america's 1st Flight Instructor!!

[@nathansteinfromarkham7109]

This Gun for Hire is probably my favorite of the Noir films I've seen so far.

[@CinemaCities1978]

It was the first Alan Ladd film I ever saw and I was instantly a fan for life.