"D.O.A." is a classic film noir released in 1949, directed by Rudolph Maté. The film is known for its innovative storytelling and is considered one of the quintessential examples of the film noir genre. It stars Edmond O'Brien, Pamela Britton, and Luther Adler.
Plot:
The film's title, "D.O.A.," stands for "Dead on Arrival," setting the tone for its suspenseful narrative. The story revolves around Frank Bigelow (played by Edmond O'Brien), a small-town notary who decides to take a spontaneous vacation to San Francisco. Once there, his life takes an unexpected and dangerous turn.
During his visit to a jazz club, Frank is poisoned with a deadly toxin, which he soon discovers is a slow-acting, untraceable poison. With only a short time to live, Frank becomes determined to find out who poisoned him and why. He becomes an amateur detective, racing against time to unravel the mystery before his own life slips away.
The film is structured as a suspenseful and dramatic flashback, with Frank recounting the events to the police. As he delves deeper into his investigation, he uncovers a web of intrigue, deceit, and corruption. The search for the truth takes him through the seedy underbelly of the city, as he tries to identify his killer and bring them to justice before it's too late.
"D.O.A." is celebrated for its inventive plot, taut direction, and the intense performance of Edmond O'Brien. It's often regarded as a classic of the film noir genre, known for its use of a ticking clock as a suspense device and its exploration of existential themes. The film's creative narrative structure and the sense of impending doom make it a standout in the world of classic cinema.
Plot:
The film's title, "D.O.A.," stands for "Dead on Arrival," setting the tone for its suspenseful narrative. The story revolves around Frank Bigelow (played by Edmond O'Brien), a small-town notary who decides to take a spontaneous vacation to San Francisco. Once there, his life takes an unexpected and dangerous turn.
During his visit to a jazz club, Frank is poisoned with a deadly toxin, which he soon discovers is a slow-acting, untraceable poison. With only a short time to live, Frank becomes determined to find out who poisoned him and why. He becomes an amateur detective, racing against time to unravel the mystery before his own life slips away.
The film is structured as a suspenseful and dramatic flashback, with Frank recounting the events to the police. As he delves deeper into his investigation, he uncovers a web of intrigue, deceit, and corruption. The search for the truth takes him through the seedy underbelly of the city, as he tries to identify his killer and bring them to justice before it's too late.
"D.O.A." is celebrated for its inventive plot, taut direction, and the intense performance of Edmond O'Brien. It's often regarded as a classic of the film noir genre, known for its use of a ticking clock as a suspense device and its exploration of existential themes. The film's creative narrative structure and the sense of impending doom make it a standout in the world of classic cinema.
Category
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Short film