Review of The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946) by Filipeneto — 06 Dec 2021

This is one of the most interesting films noir I've seen, and it brings us a story based on a novel written and that would be adapted to cinema again, in the 1980s, in a film that became iconic in its own right. Despite this, this film deserves a close look and presents us with a profound and morally challenging story.

It all takes place in a roadside café, where the traveler Frank Chambers gets a job as a helper. He's not the kind of man who wants to lock himself into a place or a job, so the job doesn't seem alluring to him, but everything changes when he meets the boss's wife, Cora. She is really seductive, and he is interested in her despite the fact that she is married and her husband, Nick, is a peaceful soul who would never suspect his hidden intentions. What starts out as an extramarital affair will lead, however, to crime and murder, and ultimately, to the separation of the lovers, divided by mutual suspicion.

The movie is good, and it's as subtle as it is perverse and truly provocative. It's not necessary for us to see the couple in bed to realize what's going on there, and the way the two conspire and plot is truly well done.

Lana Turner deserves a note of praise for the seductive and perverse way she brought Cora to life. She is a quintessential "femme fatale" and is impeccable in the way she brings to life the role that otherwise earned her fame and opened the door to more challenging work that we all know. Alongside her, John Garfield is also at her best, and the way they both work is good and exudes chemistry. Cecil Kellaway, too, is good and authentic in the carefree way he brings a naive and naturally kind husband to life. The film also has the welcome collaboration of Leon Ames.

Black-and-white cinematography is very elegant and makes smart use of light and shadow. The sets are equally notable, in particular the house where it all happens, and Turner's costumes are seductive and highlight the slender, attractive body of the actress, who was one of the most seductive of Hollywood's golden age. The movie has few special effects, but the ones that do are effective and credible.