Watch Framed

Framed is a 1947 film noir directed by Richard Wallace and starring Glenn Ford, Janis Carter, and Barry Sullivan. The movie begins with Mike Lambert (Glenn Ford) a struggling farmer, who has been framed for the murder of his employer by the wealthy and conniving Jeff Cunningham (Barry Sullivan). Mike's only way out is to prove his innocence, but with no evidence to back him up, he must resort to outsmarting the real culprit.

As Mike sets out to catch Cunningham, he meets Paula Craig (Janis Carter), a seductive woman with a shady past, who offers to help him in exchange for his assistance in her own scheme. Their deal leads them both into a dangerous game of deceit, double-crossing, and betrayal.

The story is set in the rustic countryside, which is brilliantly captured through the cinematography of Charles Lawton Jr. From the lush green fields where Mike works to the dark alleys of the big city, the film perfectly balances the visuals and the ambiance needed to create a noir feeling.

Glenn Ford delivers an impressive performance, showcasing his versatility as an actor. His portrayal of Mike Lambert is subtle yet detailed, bringing out the complexities of the character. He perfectly embodies the archetypical 'wrong man' trope, which is a staple in film noir. Janis Carter, too, leaves a mark with her performance. Her character Paula Craig, a femme fatale, is not only alluring but also cunning and manipulative. The chemistry between the two actors is electrifying, adding to the tension of the film.

The movie is a classic example of film noir, with its dark and gloomy tone, a sense of impending doom, and an intricate plot that keeps the viewers on the edge of their seats. The screenplay by Ben Maddow is sharp and well-paced, keeping the story moving at an engaging pace.

Apart from the main storyline, the movie also deals with themes such as class and power dynamics. Mike, a poor farmer, is pitted against Cunningham, a wealthy businessman, in a struggle for justice. This dynamic is further explored through the relationship between Paula and Mike, where the latter represents the underprivileged class while the former is a member of the elite society.

However, the film does fall short in some aspects. There are a few moments where the plot seems too convoluted, with too many twists and turns, which can leave the audience feeling slightly confused. Some of the characters, such as the police chief, are one-dimensional and don't add much to the storyline. Additionally, the climax is relatively predictable, and the film ends somewhat abruptly, leaving a few loose ends.

Despite its shortcomings, Framed is an excellent addition to the film noir genre. The movie captures the essence of the era, dealing with social issues while presenting a taut thriller. It is an excellent showcase of Glenn Ford's acting skills and showcases the director's proficiency in creating a sense of tension and unease. If you're a fan of film noir or crime thrillers, then Framed should definitely be on your watchlist.