Watch Appointment with Danger

Appointment with Danger is a film noir thriller directed by Lewis Allen and released in 1950. The movie stars Alan Ladd as a dedicated postal inspector attempting to solve a murder case while navigating treacherous criminal underworlds and romantic entanglements. The film blends suspense, action, and drama to deliver a thrilling and compelling story.

In Appointment with Danger, Ladd plays Al Goddard, a postal inspector sent to investigate the murder of a fellow inspector who was killed while transporting a large sum of money. Goddard soon realizes that the murder was not a random act, but rather part of a much larger criminal conspiracy involving mobsters, counterfeiters, and corrupt postal workers.

As he delves deeper into the case, Goddard discovers that the murder victim's girlfriend, played by Phyllis Calvert, may have valuable information that could help solve the crime. However, he soon finds himself conflicted between his duty to the case and his growing feelings for her.

Goddard's investigation takes him through the seedy underworld of organized crime and leads to a series of tense confrontations with dangerous criminals. Along the way, he must navigate corrupt officials, face off against tough gangsters, and engage in thrilling car chases and shootouts.

The film's cast delivers strong performances, with Ladd's stoic and determined portrayal of Goddard anchoring the story. Calvert provides a sympathetic foil, and Paul Stewart gives a chilling turn as the movie's primary villain. The supporting cast includes familiar faces from the era's film noir scene, including Jack Webb, Harry Morgan, and Stacy Harris.

The movie is notable for its gritty portrayal of post-World War II America, with its urban landscapes, shadowy alleys, and rundown buildings providing a stark backdrop for the story. The film's use of location shooting adds to its authenticity, with scenes shot on the streets of Chicago and at the city's Union Station.

The film's score, composed by Victor Young, adds to the movie's moody atmosphere and heightens its moments of tension and danger. The music largely eschews traditional symphonic themes, instead utilizing bluesy guitar riffs, jazzy horns, and pulsating percussion to create a unique and memorable sound.

Overall, Appointment with Danger is a tightly crafted and well-executed thriller that delivers plenty of action and suspense while also exploring its characters' motivations and relationships. With its impressive cast, sharp dialogue, and atmospheric visuals, the film remains a classic example of the film noir genre and a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood cinema.

Appointment with Danger is a 1951 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.