On B List of Movie Reviews
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A Bullet for Joey (1955)
Rate:
4
Viewed:
12/17
12/17:
Borrowing some elements from White Heat and
He Walked by Night, A Bullet for Joey is a dated late
entry in the film noir genre.
In fact, to label it a film noir is a stretch because it's not. I guess Edward G. Robinson
and George Raft, their second film together after fighting each other over Marlene Dietrich's affection in Manpower,
must have needed the money.
Although a great actor in his own right, Edward G. Robinson's biggest flaw is hammy persona. It certainly
shows here. All he does is walk through the door and get people in positions while smoking his cigar.
George Raft, mob ties and all, should've retired at least two decades prior to the 50's. He looks like a dinosaur. When
George Raft found out that his co-star paid a writer $5,000 to polish up his dialogue, he doled out the same for himself. Ah,
what egos during their heyday.
Once upon a time, Audrey Totter was beautiful but looks aged in the film. She's less than effective as Raft's moll. When
I saw George Dolenz for the first time, I immediately guessed who that was and got it correct because his resemblance was
uncanny. He's the father of Micky Dolenz of The Monkees.
All in all, A Bullet for Joey is a sad late stab at film noir.