Watch Never Love a Stranger

Never Love a Stranger, released in 1958, is a gripping noir drama directed by Robert Stevens and based on the novel by Harold Robbins. The film boasts a talented cast, including John Drew Barrymore, Lita Milan, and Robert Bray, who bring their characters to life in stunning performances that capture the intensity and desperation of their circumstances.

The story centers on Frankie Kane (John Drew Barrymore), a young man who grew up in poverty in a tough New York neighborhood. His father is dead, his mother is an alcoholic, and he has no prospects for the future. But Frankie is determined to rise above his circumstances and make something of himself, no matter the cost. He turns to a life of crime, working his way up the ranks of the local gangsters until he becomes one of the most powerful men in the city.

Along the way, Frankie meets and falls in love with Julie (Lita Milan), a beautiful young woman from a wealthy family. Though Julie is at first repelled by Frankie's criminal lifestyle, she eventually succumbs to his charm and passion, and the two become inseparable. But Frankie's success and newfound happiness are threatened when his past comes back to haunt him. A rival gangster, Dave (Robert Bray), has it out for Frankie, and he will stop at nothing to take him down.

As Frankie struggles to protect himself and Julie from Dave's wrath, he is forced to confront the dark deeds of his past and their consequences. He must also grapple with his moral compass and decide whether his love for Julie is worth risking everything for. The film is a dark and moody meditation on the corrupting influence of power and the dangerous allure of forbidden love.

One of the standout features of the film is its moody, atmospheric cinematography. The director makes great use of shadow and light to create a sense of menace and foreboding. The film is also notable for its frank depiction of sexuality and the taboo relationship between Frankie and Julie. This bold approach to storytelling helped to establish Never Love a Stranger as a classic of the noir genre.

Overall, Never Love a Stranger is a gripping and intense drama that showcases the talents of its cast and crew. With its powerful performances, stunning visuals, and provocative themes, the film remains a must-see for fans of classic cinema.