Watch The Houston Story

The Houston Story is a 1956 noir film that delves into the world of organized crime, corruption, and law enforcement in the bustling city of Houston. Directed by William Castle, the film stars Gene Barry, Barbara Hale, and Edward Arnold in the lead roles. The story follows Frank Duncan (Gene Barry), a former cop turned private investigator, who uncovers a web of corruption in the city's political and law enforcement circles while investigating the murder of a local businessman. As he delves deeper into the case, he realizes that the murder is just the tip of the iceberg and uncovers a vast criminal network that has permeated all aspects of the city's infrastructure.

With the help of his client, the victim's widow Louise (Barbara Hale), and a determined newspaper reporter, Charlie (Paul Richards), Frank sets out to bring down the criminal syndicate and expose the corrupt officials who are protecting them. Along the way, they encounter several dangerous individuals, including the ruthless mob boss, King Louis (Edward Arnold), who will stop at nothing to maintain his stranglehold on the city.

The film's depiction of Houston is gritty and realistic, highlighting the city's reputation as a hub of organized crime during the 1950s. The sets and locations used in the film, including several scenes shot at the city's famous Shamrock Hotel, add to the film's authenticity and provide a sense of place for the story.

One of the strengths of The Houston Story is its strong cast, particularly Gene Barry's portrayal of Frank Duncan. Barry brings a rugged intensity to the role that is both convincing and compelling, making it easy to root for him as he battles against seemingly insurmountable odds. Barbara Hale also shines as Louise, a strong-willed and intelligent woman who proves to be an invaluable ally to Frank in his quest for justice.

Edward Arnold's portrayal of King Louis is another standout, as he exudes a menacing presence and a chilling calmness that make him a formidable antagonist. The supporting cast, including Paul Richards as the intrepid reporter Charlie and John Zaremba as the corrupt police chief, also deliver strong performances that add depth and complexity to the film's characters.

Overall, The Houston Story is a well-crafted and entertaining film that will appeal to fans of classic film noir and crime dramas. Its gripping storyline, strong performances, and authentic portrayal of the city of Houston make it a must-see for anyone interested in the genre or the history of organized crime in the United States.

The Houston Story is a 1956 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.