Review of Double Indemnity (1944) by Andrew James W — 14 Sep 2010

Double Indemnity... What can really be said? Aside from being, quite possibly, my favorite film and an undeniable film noir masterpiece, it is a very dark and challenging work from one of the most skilled artists of his time (or any other for that matter); for those and many other reasons, no words are capable of doing this film justice. However, seeing as I have already started writing, I shall press on and give it a lame attempt.

Double Indemnity is about an insurance salesman named Walter Neff (Fred MacMurray) who becomes smitten with one of his company's clients' sexy wife (Barbara Stanwick in what is by far the best performance of her amazing career). As the sexual tension between them rises, Walter is duped into murdering her husband so they can collect on his insurance policy. The only thing standing in their way is Barton Keyes (Edward G. Robinson), the insurance company's claims investigator who is absolutely positive that everything is not as it seems.

While this film has numerous strengths, I'd say its biggest is its ability to sustain a mood of tension throughout. This has a lot to do with the Direction (Billy Wilder) and the brilliant acting, but I think the most contributive (Firefox doesn't recognize this word... lol) element is the amazing screenwriting (the film was scripted by renown novelist Raymond Chandler and the director Billy Wilder), which stands out to me as possibly the best ever; whatever the reason, this movie is a classic of the highest order and is practically demanded viewing for any and every film lover. Watch it... and even if you don't like it, at least I won't egg your house.

7 Oscar Nominations - Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress in a Lead Role, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Music, Best Sound Recording.