Three Riveting Films Illuminate Noir Anthology

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MOVIE REVIEW
Film Noir: The Dark Side Of Cinema XV [Man Afraid / The Girl In The Kremlin / The Tattered Dress]
Rating (Approved) –

Genre: Crime, Drama, Film-Noir, Mystery
Year Released: 1957, 2023 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 4h 18m
Director(s): Harry Keller/Russell Birdwell/Jack Arnold
Writer(s): Herb Meadow, Daniel B. Ullman/DeWitt Bodeen (based on a story by,) Gene L. Coon (screenplay,) Robert Hill (screenplay,) Harry Ruskin (based on a story by)/George Zuckerman
Cast: Jeff Chandler, George Nader, Lex Barker, Gail Russell, Jeanne Crain, Phyllis Thaxter, Zsa Zsa Gabor, Elaine Stewart, Jack Carson, Eduard Franz, Harold J. Stone, Tim Hovey, Troy Donahue, Jeffrey Stone, Maurice Manson, William Schallert, George Tobias, Edward Andrews, Edward Platt
Where To Watch: available now here www.kinolorber.com

RAVING REVIEW: Welcome to the mesmerizing realm of film noir as we delve into the captivating depths of FILM NOIR: THE DARK SIDE OF CINEMA XV. This box set unravels a riveting trio of films: MAN AFRAID, THE GIRL IN THE KREMLIN, and THE TATTERED DRESS. Each one, an individual gem, seamlessly melds into an orchestration of narratives, opening doors to the diverse facets of film noir suspense.

We start this cinematic exploration with MAN AFRAID. Picture this: an unsuspecting clergy member's tranquil world is plunged into chaos following an unanticipated invasion. The narrative dives head-first into the tumultuous sea of societal critique and character complexity, bearing the hallmarks of its historical period. Enhanced by emotionally charged performances and an evocative score for a backdrop, the film makes a resounding echo in the halls of film noir.

Our journey takes a turn next, landing in 1950s Moscow for THE GIRL IN THE KREMLIN. Despite some visible production constraints, this movie offers a spellbinding storyline. After a staged disappearance, the plot spirals into an intriguing whirlpool of conspiracies, binding viewers to its enigmatic narrative. The plot's potential is further enhanced through dynamic character portrayals, making the film another must in the genre.

Bringing the final curtain down on this trio is THE TATTERED DRESS, a penetrating study of power dynamics and ethical corrosion. Set against an arid desert town backdrop, the tale unwinds around a consequential murder case, pitting a renowned defense attorney against the local sheriff. The suspense is thick, with each character contributing their utmost to the film's overall appeal. The movie exemplifies film noir's essence with its morally ambiguous characters and thrilling plot turns.

Each film shines brightly on its own, but the true brilliance of their combined luminosity is another superb addition to the FILM NOIR: THE DARK SIDE OF CINEMA series. This anthology is a thrilling voyage through the murky corridors of the human psyche and societal norms. The moral puzzle of MAN AFRAID, the unconventional yet gripping plot of THE GIRL IN THE KREMLIN, and the study of power dynamics in THE TATTERED DRESS, collectively intensify the box set's magnetic pull.

While each film is a standalone narrative, their combined viewing morphs into a rich, connected tapestry of storytelling embodying film noir's essence. Whether it's the moral dilemmas that the characters grapple with or the societal introspections the stories reflect, the narrative richness of this collection secures it a place in every film library.

Product Extras:
– Brand New HD Masters – From a 2K Scan of the 35mm Fine Grains
– NEW Audio Commentary for MAN AFRAID by Film Historian David Del Valle and Filmmaker David DeCoteau
– NEW Audio Commentary for THE GIRL IN THE KREMLIN by Film Historians Emma Westwood and Paul Anthony Nelson
– NEW Audio Commentary for THE TATTERED DRESS by Professor and Film Scholar Jason A. Ney
– Theatrical Trailers for MAN AFRAID and THE TATTERED DRESS (Newly Mastered in 2K)
– 3 TV Spots for THE GIRL IN THE KREMLIN (Newly Mastered in 2K)
– Optional English Subtitles

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]