Review of The Killers (1946) by Art S — 11 Feb 2015

Well done film noir piece tells the story of an ex fighter called the Swede, who is gunned down in his room, even though he knows the killers are coming and does nothing to stop it, saying, he once did something wrong.

An insurance investigator, following up on the death is curious to know what forced his death and what involvement in a payroll heist has to do with the Swede. Very well directed by Siodmak telling the story in various out of order flashbacks where the viewer has to assemble the puzzle, but still very easy to follow.

Lancaster is good in his first movie role, Gardner is stunning to look at (a nod to cinematographer Bredell). Conrad & McGraw lend excellent support as the killers, as does Barnett, as the Swede's weary ex cellmate.

Some coincidences seem too fantastic, but are excusable to make necessary the story.