Rating of
3.5/4
The Naked City review
Daniel Corleone - wrote on 09/19/12
This Hitchcockian like picture must be one of the best/realistic mysteries/film noir/ Italian neorealism of its era. Jean Dexter, a blonde model, was murdered by two people. Lt. Dan Muldoon (Barry Fitzgerald) was asked to be responsible for the case together with Detective Jimmy Halloran (Don Taylor). Niles (Howard Duff), Ruth Morrison (Dorothy Hart) and Dr. Stoneman (House Jameson) were questioned. Screenplay was effective with lines: Lt. Dan - "Step by step" Capt. - "Sometimes I wonder what the human heart is made of." Niles - "These things happen lieutenant." and narrator - "Their is a pulse to a city." Exceptional voice over, wonderful cinematography, effective pace, detailed storytelling and hilarious humor were in full display. The score added to the excitement of certain scenes especially the chase sequence. Special features from the criterion collection was insightful and shows the impact it had in the film industry. Lt. Daniel Muldoon is an intersting character which was well portrayed by Barry Fitzgerald, which is enough to keep you glued to the movie. The Naked City embodies themes of envy, disloyalty, everyday people, routine, team work and self motivation.
