Review of Hangover Square (1945) by Martin T — 01 Jul 2010

A mild-mannered composer in turn-of-the-century London has blackouts, during which he commits murderous acts. It's a follow-up to The Lodger -- same director, writer, producer, star and setting, and similar subject matter.

But there are some differences. Laird Cregar (in his final performance before his tragic end) here is less sinister, but a more nuanced character. The tone is closer to melodrama and noir than thriller/horror.

The story doesn't seem to allow for as much gloomy, gothic atmosphere, although there are some remarkably evocative sequences, particularly the Guy Fawkes bonfire scene. The main drawback is that the film is rather slow-moving, at least for the first half.

But it has a lot going for it, especially Herrmann's magnificent score, which plays a crucial role to the plot. Also a fun role for Linda Darnell as the manipulative femme fatale.