Watch The Turning Point

The Turning Point is a crime noir film directed by William Dieterle, boasting a strong cast with notable actors William Holden, Edmond O'Brien, and Alexis Smith. Released in 1952, the film intertwines themes of crime, corruption, and the quest for justice, capturing the essence of the edgy and morally complex storytelling characteristic of the period's darker cinematic endeavors.

The film unfolds in a fictional Midwestern city plagued by a wave of organized crime, where corruption seeps through the very fabric of society, from street-level hooligans to the upper echelons of power. Against this backdrop, we meet our protagonist, Special Prosecutor John Conroy, portrayed by Edmond O'Brien. Conroy is a principled and idealistic lawyer who is appointed to spearhead a crusade against the rampant corruption and mob influence crippling his city. He's a man with a strong sense of duty and justice, determined to root out the rot that has taken hold of the city's institutions.

John Conroy is not alone in this fight. He is joined by his childhood friend, Jerry McKibbon, played by William Holden. McKibbon is a seasoned newspaper reporter with a knack for uncovering the truth, and a cynical outlook shaped by his experiences with the city's underbelly. McKibbon's quick wit, street smarts, and connections make him an invaluable asset in Conroy's pursuit of the truth. However, Jerry's methods and motivations are sometimes at odds with Conroy's strait-laced approach, which creates an interesting dynamic between the two men.

Alexis Smith stars as Amanda Waycross, a sophisticated and enigmatic woman who finds herself entangled in the lives of both Conroy and McKibbon. Her character adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the narrative, as she navigates the tensions between her own sense of morality and the affection she holds for the men in her life. As the stakes rise, and the corruption hits closer to home, Amanda's loyalties and resolve are put to the test.

Central to the storyline is the treacherous web of crime and corruption spun by an elusive mob boss. Conroy's investigation leads him on a perilous journey through the murky waters of politics and underworld connections. He soon discovers that the opposition is formidable, willing to do whatever it takes to protect their interests and maintain their grip on the city.

The Turning Point excels in its rich character development. Conroy's unyielding commitment to the law is tested as he faces moral dilemmas, personal threats, and the challenge of confronting not only the mob's influence but also the insidious corruption within his own circle of allies. As he digs deeper, he finds that the fight against corruption bears personal costs, prompting him to question his methods, his allies, and even his own idealism.

Meanwhile, McKibbon's character provides a counterbalance, showcasing the power and importance of the press in seeking justice and accountability. His determination to unravel the truth through his reporting underscores the film's commentary on the role of journalism in society. His relationship with Conroy is pivotal, as their differing paths to the same goal reflect the film's nuanced view of justice and the means by which it is pursued.

Visually, The Turning Point makes good use of its noir roots, with its dramatic lighting, high-contrast scenes, and atmospheric cinematography that sets the tone for a story full of suspense and moral uncertainty. The director skillfully employs shadows and angles to reinforce the claustrophobic sense of entrapment the characters feel as they battle the pervasive corruption. This visual style, paired with sharp dialogue and a tension-filled plot, keeps the audience riveted and immersed in the unfolding drama.

The screenplay, written by Warren Duff, further strengthens the film. The dialogue crackles with the tension of the era's best hard-boiled crime stories. The script is full of twists and turns, keeping viewers engaged as the layers of the conspiracy are peeled back, revealing the depth of the city's degradation.

As a whole, The Turning Point represents the fight against corruption and the notion that the path towards justice is fraught with difficulty and often personal sacrifice. It delves into the conscience of its characters, offering a gritty exploration of what it takes to confront evil when the odds are stacked against those who stand up against it. This film is a classic entry in the film noir genre and a compelling watch for anyone interested in stories of crime, intrigue, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of daunting adversity.

The Turning Point is a 1952 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.