Murder, Deception, and the Price of Success

Read Time:4 Minute, 27 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Glass Web (3-D) (Blu-ray)
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Genre: Film Noir, Crime, Drama, Thriller
Year Released: 1953, Kino Lorber Blu-ray 2025
Runtime: 1h 21m
Director(s): Jack Arnold
Writer(s): Robert Blees, Leonard Lee, Max Ehrlich
Cast: Edward G. Robinson, John Forsythe, Kathleen Hughes, Marcia Henderson, Richard Denning, Hugh Sanders, Jean Willes, Eve McVeagh
Where To Watch: available March 25, 2025; pre-order your copy here: www.kinolorber.com or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: In 1953, director Jack Arnold, famed for his science fiction endeavors, detoured into film noir with THE GLASS WEB. This crime thriller, set against the burgeoning television industry, explores a narrative rich in ambition, deceit, and moral ambiguity.

The story centers on Don Newell (John Forsythe,) a committed writer for the "Crime of the Week" television program. Newell becomes entangled in a reckless affair with actress Paula Ranier (Kathleen Hughes), whose manipulative nature extends beyond him to ensnare Henry Hayes (Edward G. Robinson,) the show's technical advisor. These intertwined relationships set the stage for a complex exploration of jealousy, betrayal, and desperation.

Jack Arnold's direction emphasizes the television studio's claustrophobic environment, mirroring the characters' tangled relationships. The film was originally shot in 3D, a novel technique at the time, though its utilization is subtle. Notably, sequences where objects appear to project toward the audience, heighten tension and immerse viewers in the unfolding drama. I love that Kino Lorber’s Blu-ray release comes with anaglyph 3D glasses!

The visual style employs shadow and light to accentuate the noir atmosphere, reinforcing themes of moral ambiguity and hidden motives. Arnold's decision to shoot primarily within the confines of the studio setting enhances the sense of entrapment experienced by the characters, both physically and metaphorically.

The screenplay, adapted from Max Ehrlich's novel Spin the Glass Web, offers sharp, insightful dialogue that captures the era's cultural nuances. Character interactions are laced with subtext, revealing tensions and unspoken desires. Paula's exchanges with Don and Henry, in particular, are laden with manipulation and veiled threats, showcasing her ability to control and influence those around her.

The script also critiques the television industry's commercialization (if only they knew what was coming,) highlighting how the pursuit of profit often compromises creative endeavors. This meta-commentary adds depth to the narrative and invites viewers to reflect on the ethical implications of media production and consumption.

Released when television emerged as a dominant medium, THE GLASS WEB offers a critical perspective on the industry's inner workings. The film portrays television as a double-edged sword that informs and manipulates the public. The depiction of the "Crime of the Week" show within the movie serves as a microcosm of the broader industry, illustrating how sensationalism often takes precedence over artistic integrity.

The narrative also addresses the personal toll exacted by the relentless pursuit of success in the entertainment world. Characters like Don and Henry become ensnared in a cycle of ambition and compromise, leading to ethical lapses and personal downfall. This critique remains relevant, offering timeless insights into the challenges individuals face navigating the complex landscape of media production.

While Arnold is renowned for his science fiction masterpieces, THE GLASS WEB demonstrates his proficiency in film noir. The movie aligns with classic noir themes, including moral ambiguity, femme fatales, and the exploration of human flaws. The film's intricate plot and character dynamics invite comparisons to other noir classics that delve into the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of unchecked ambition. However, THE GLASS WEB stands out by intertwining these themes with a critique of the media industry, providing a multifaceted narrative that engages viewers on multiple levels.

THE GLASS WEB is a testament to Jack Arnold's versatility as a director. Arnold navigates the intricacies of film noir to deliver a compelling narrative. The film's exploration of ambition, deceit, and the ethical complexities of the television industry offers a thought-provoking experience that resonates beyond its era. THE GLASS WEB invites viewers to reflect on the timeless interplay between personal desires and professional ethics through nuanced performances, sharp dialogue, and a critical lens on media practices.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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