Watch Framed

Framed is a captivating pre-code Hollywood film that was released in 1930. The movie was directed by George Archainbaud and featured a talented ensemble cast consisting of Evelyn Brent, Regis Toomey, and Ralf Harolde. The movie tells the story of Rose Manning (Evelyn Brent), a woman wrongly accused of murder. Rose works as a bar singer in a seedy nightclub owned by her lover, Slim (Ralf Harolde). Her life takes a sudden turn when her former boss, Nick Gardella, is killed in a hit-and-run accident, and witnesses mistakenly identify Rose as the driver of the car that killed him.

Rose is arrested and taken into custody, where she is interrogated by the police. Hoping to clear her name, Rose turns to her former lover, a small-time crook named Frankie (Regis Toomey), for help. Frankie believes her innocence and starts conducting his own investigation to find the real culprits responsible for the murder.

As Frankie delves deeper into the case, he comes across a web of deceit and betrayal that ultimately leads to Slim, the nightclub owner who had manipulated Rose into believing she was responsible for the murder. With the help of a few allies, including a sympathetic attorney, Frankie eventually manages to prove Rose's innocence and bring the real perpetrators to justice.

Framed is an excellent example of a well-crafted film noir, with its moody, atmospheric setting and complex characters. The film perfectly captures the gritty, underworld ambiance of depression-era America, complete with its criminal underbelly and broken dreams. The script, written by Ralph Block and Hugh Herbert, is sharp and smartly plotted, building tension and suspense from start to finish.

The cast of Framed delivers outstanding performances, particularly Evelyn Brent, who is perfectly cast as the tough-talking, yet vulnerable Rose. Her portrayal of the character is both sympathetic and steely, capturing the essence of a woman who has been dealt a bad hand in life but refuses to give up without a fight. Regis Toomey is also impressive as the charismatic but flawed Frankie, showcasing the character's street smarts and loyalty to Rose.

Overall, Framed is a must-see film for fans of the film noir genre. Its themes of justice, loyalty, and betrayal, combined with its gripping plot and realistic characters, make it a timeless classic that still holds up today.