Naked Alibi - A 1954 Film - Starring Gloria Grahame and Sterling Hayden - A Noir Classic - Run Time 86 Minutes
Director: Jerry Hopper. Screenplay: Lawrence Roman based on a story, “Cry Copper,” by J. Robert Bren and Gladys Atwater. Producer: Ross Hunter. Cinematographer: Russell Metty. Original Music (un-credited): Hans J. Salter and Frank Skinner. Art Directors: Alexander Golitzen, Emrich Nicholson. Editor: Al Clark. Cast: Sterling Hayden (Chief Joe Conroy), Gloria Graham (Marlene), Gene Barry (Al Willis), Marcia Henderson (Helen Willis). Released: Universal International, January 14, 1955. 86 minutes
Questioned as a murder suspect, solid (but drunk) citizen Al Willis attacks his police questioners, is beaten, and swears vengeance against them. Next night, Lieut. Parks is murdered; Willis is the only suspect in the eyes of tough Chief Conroy, who pursues him doggedly despite lack of evidence. The obsessed Conroy is dismissed from the force, but continues to harass Willis, who flees to a sleazy town on the Mexican border. Of course, Conroy follows. But which is crazy, Conroy or Willis?
It turns out Al Willis has a double life. I don't want to reveal to much of the plot so I will just say a few things about why I like Naked Alibi.
Firstly it is the brilliant acting by Gloria Grahame. She lives in Border Town, working as a singer and a prostitute. She is also the girl friend of Al Willis. We learn nothing of the life history that shaped her. The dark, savage atmosphere of the town is Noir perfection.
I saw it as a study in two contrasting worlds, that of the sham respectable life of Al Willis with his wife who accepts his long absences as business trips while seeung him as a perfect husband and his real life in Bordetown. Both women love him.
The cinematography is magnificent
I hope to soon watch another film starring Gloria Grahame, Human Desire, soon
The plot is exciting, and kept me very interested.
Naked Alibi is on YouTube
1 comment:
This post got my attention when I saw the name Sterling Hayden because I recall reading his memoir decades ago and liking it, I think it involved sailing and adventures. He had a life outside of acting and Hollywood.
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