Dark City (1950)

Charlton Heston's film debut gives a hint of his future as one of the key stars in Hollywood - strong and determined in one moment, but troubled, even a little vulnerable in the next. He's a fine, nuanced actor and I like his performance here better than some of his well known later, even epic films. Although the movie could have benefited from some deft editing (as some scenes are paced a little slow - hey, it's the 50's), it doesn't really drag and Heston is enough of an actor to keep you glued to the screen. I've been to Vegas a number of times and what a difference between then and now... The old style gaming rooms, the crowded casino floors and the old "downtown" (Golden Nugget and other signs - although in b&w - still bring out that old world charm and nostalgia when I see those sequences). It's a fairly simple plot (not a real noir film as several have already pointed out) and while the ending is predictable, nonetheless, doesn't really detract from the movie which is set mostly in NY, with a little LA / Vegas thrown in the mix.

A suspenseful and fascinating film noir crime drama! Like most film noirs, this one was another beautiful, little slice of life...as a group of gamblers find out too late the consequences of what the Bible says about greed: money is the root of all evil! Although I myself am not a gambler, who doesn't like a large sum of "dough"? You find yourself understanding the characters assembled in this delightful suspense noir, as it could happen to you or anyone...we're just glad it wasn't us (unless you're kissing Lizabeth Scott...speaking from a male's point of view). As always Lizabeth Scott is sexy and sizzles with her smoky voice and captivating eyes...but she also possessed this down-to-earth charm that allured you into whatever was going on with the character she was playing. Charlton Heston gives a commanding and strong performance, considering this was his first movie role. Later he would go on to icon status with his portrayals of Moses in the Ten Commandments, and Ben-Hur in the movie Ben-Hur.

It was a little diferent role for Charlton, Jack Webb and Harry Morgan but still enjoyed it.

Heston's film debut is a lot of fun -- he's charming, sturdy, conflicted and overwrought. The plot is entertaining and clever, but filled with more than its share of improbable plot devices. The cinematography is deftly noirish. But the film really belongs to the brilliant supporting cast: Dean Jagger, the frequently under-rated Elizabeth Scott, Ed Begley, Harry Morgan, and Jack Webb. We know what Heston was to become, so it's a pleasure to watch him at this point in his career surrounded by real pros who effectively round out each scene and the film as a whole.It's a four-star movie but it gets three because of the DVD. There was about 5 minutues of horizonotal waviness half-way through the film, and isolated pops and crackles on the soundtrack. Still well worth it for any fan of the genre, though.

Dark City is Charlton Heston's first film. He plays the role of Danny, an overly determined revenger, who spends the film tracking down the killer of the 4 members of his poker game gone bad, one by one. Lizabeth Scott plays Fran Garland, Danny's under appreciated singer at the local Nightclub which Danny frequents. She delivers 5, yes 5 songs, one of which is the best rendition of That Old Black Magic available. This is one of Lizabeth Scott's best films - even though she does not have a gun in her purse!!. A fine supporting cast of Paramount Contract Players of that era help move things along-Jack Webb, Harry Morgan, Don Defore, Ed Begley, Dean Jagger, Mike Masurki, and of all people, Vivica Lindfors. Aside from being a Charlton Heston film premier, this is a MUST for any Lizabeth Scott fan.

Charlton Heston leads an outstanding cast in one of His early films. After a gambler loses $5,000 in a game He kills himself. This starts all of the trouble as his brother is Insane and vows to kill all of those who ere responsible. One by one the other gamblers are killed as Heston tries not only to find the killer but to make things right. The film is well worth watching.

Well made with great supporting cast.

I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR YEARS FOR THIS MOVIE TO COME OUT ON DVD.I WISH I COULD OF SEEN THIS MOVIE ON THE BIG SCREEN ,I GUESS THEDVD WILL HAVE TO DO.

To watch this well-made film one has to wonder why it took so long to give Charlton Heston a chance. He was s true actor, and, it's a great film.

The recipient loved it!

prime delivery the best

This classic film noir is excellent and the cast is superb. The sound and picture quality is also excellent. Lizabeth Scott is such a goodsinger. I would certainly recommend purchasing this DVD.

Good film for fans of 50s in black and white.