Watch Big Combo, The - 1955

The Big Combo is a 1955 film noir directed by Joseph H. Lewis and starring Cornel Wilde, Richard Conte and Jean Wallace. The film was recently digitally remastered, allowing audiences to experience the stunning black and white cinematography in a way that has never been possible before. The film follows police lieutenant Leonard Diamond (Wilde) as he investigates a ruthless mob boss named Mr. Brown (Conte) who controls the city's illegal gambling, prostitution, and narcotics trade. Diamond becomes obsessed with bringing down Brown and his criminal empire, but the more he investigates, the more dangerous it becomes for him and everyone around him.

One of the most striking features of The Big Combo is its use of shadows and light. The film is shot in stark black and white, with deep shadows and pools of light that create a sense of unease and danger. This visual style is matched by its moody score, which adds to the film's overall sense of tension and danger.

The film is also notable for its strong performances. Wilde's portrayal of Diamond is a highlight, as he brings a sense of dogged determination and moral righteousness to the role. Wallace is also strong as the mysterious and alluring Susan Lowell, a woman caught in the middle of the conflict between Diamond and Brown. Conte, meanwhile, gives a chilling performance as the sociopathic Brown, playing the character with an icy calm that is all the more unnerving.

But what really sets The Big Combo apart is its willingness to tackle difficult themes. The film deals with issues of police corruption, racism, and sexual violence in a way that was daring for its time. It also features a provocative scene involving Brown and his henchman Fante (played by Lee Van Cleef) that is both disturbing and groundbreaking.

Despite its strong performances and provocative themes, however, some critics have criticized The Big Combo for its overly convoluted plot. The film jumps back and forth in time, introducing multiple characters and subplots that can be difficult to keep track of. But even with its flaws, The Big Combo remains a fascinating and influential addition to the film noir genre.

Overall, The Big Combo is a film that is both visually striking and thematically complex. With its stunning black and white cinematography and strong performances, the film is a must-see for fans of classic noir. Thanks to its recent digital remastering, audiences can now experience this timeless masterpiece in a whole new way.

Big Combo, The - 1955 is a 1955 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.