Review of The Naked City (1948) by Stephen M — 09 Jul 2008

Quietly engaging, it's subtlety sucks you in until your immersed in the tides of this one of a kind noir thriller. Filmed entirely on location (a big deal for the 40's), Jules Dassin brings New York City to life in all its personas.

'The Naked City' doesn't excel due to its story, while it does have some nice surprises, one can figure out who's playing who's fiddle after the first 40 minutes. What does carry this picture are its performances, a cast of unknowns who act with such conviction and believability, you can't help but enjoy them, and enjoy yourself at the same time.

Unparalleled for the being the first of its kind, its characters, humble yet graceful cinematography and unique narration, make 'The Naked City' more than worthwhile.