Watch They Made Me a Fugitive
- Approved
- 1947
- 1 hr 39 min
-
7.2 (1,960)
They Made Me a Fugitive, released in 1947, is a classic British film noir directed by Alberto Cavalcanti. The film stars Sally Gray, Trevor Howard, and Griffith Jones in lead roles. The story is set in London during the post-war years. The protagonist is a former RAF pilot named Clem Morgan (Trevor Howard), who is struggling to adjust to civilian life. His desperation for money leads him to become involved in a criminal operation run by a gang led by a man named Narcy (Griffith Jones). Clem's job is to smuggle stolen goods across the city. But when he discovers that the gang has murdered one of their members, he tries to leave the gang. Narcy doesn't take it lightly and plots to eliminate Clem before he can report the murder to the police.
Clem is captured, framed for another crime, and sent to prison. Upon his release, he finds that his former gang has taken over his old haunts and are expanding their crime operations. He decides to take revenge on Narcy and his gang, who have now kidnapped Sally (Sally Gray), a former girlfriend, who is also a witness in one of their cases.
Clem launches a full-fledged attack on the gang, going on the run, and leading a dangerous game of cat and mouse, as he tries to evade the law while seeking revenge against his former associates. He aligns himself with a nightclub singer, who has also had past run-ins with the gang, to gather information on their future plans. The singer tries to convince Clem to turn himself in, but he is adamant about taking down the gang himself.
With powerful performances from the lead actors, dramatic twists and turns, and a thrilling climax set in an abandoned factory, They Made Me a Fugitive is an engrossing and gritty tale of revenge, betrayal, and redemption.
The movie's black and white cinematography, the striking use of shadows and light, and the moody, atmospheric score by composer Marius Constant add to the film's noirish feel. It reflects the darkness and uncertainty of the post-war period in which the film is set, with its damaged characters, corrupt police, and social decay.
They Made Me a Fugitive was well-received critically upon its release and remains a notable example of the British film noir genre. The film was also a significant turning point in the careers of both Trevor Howard and Sally Gray, who went on to greater fame in the years that followed.
In conclusion, They Made Me a Fugitive is a gripping and suspenseful film noir that stands the test of time. Its hard-edged story, visceral action, and memorable performances make it an exciting watch for fans of the genre.
They Made Me a Fugitive is a 1947 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.