Download Obsession (1949) Colorized HD | Robert Newton | British Noir Crime Thriller | The Hidden Room

Dark Desires and Deadly Schemes: Obsession (1949) Colorized

Step into the shadowy world of postwar British cinema with Obsession (1949), a gripping film noir crime thriller, now meticulously colorized for a new generation of classic film fans. Directed by Edward Dmytryk and based on Alec Coppel’s novel “A Man About a Dog,” this psychological suspense drama is a masterclass in tension, deception, and moral ambiguity. With its atmospheric London setting and chillingly methodical plot, Obsession—released in the United States as The Hidden Room—stands as a landmark of British noir, now available in vibrant HD color.

Obsession (1949) Plot: A Calculated Crime of Passion

At the heart of Obsession lies the story of Dr. Clive Riordan (Robert Newton), a respected psychiatrist whose life unravels when he discovers his wife Storm’s (Sally Gray) affair with American journalist Bill Kronin (Phil Brown). Consumed by jealousy and a desire for retribution, Dr. Riordan devises a meticulous plan to commit the perfect murder.

He kidnaps Kronin and imprisons him in a hidden room within a derelict building, intending to slowly dispose of his rival’s body using acid, leaving no trace behind. As the days pass, the psychological cat-and-mouse game intensifies. Kronin desperately tries to manipulate his captor and outwit death, while Storm, unaware of her lover’s fate, is tormented by guilt and suspicion. The suspense escalates as Scotland Yard’s dogged Inspector Finsbury (Naunton Wayne) begins to close in, piecing together the clues in a race against time.

This taut narrative explores the darkest corners of obsession, revenge, and the thin line between sanity and madness. The film’s claustrophobic atmosphere and moral complexity make it a standout in the noir genre.

Also Known As: The Hidden Room

For American audiences, Obsession was retitled The Hidden Room, a nod to the film’s chilling centerpiece and its themes of secrecy and entrapment. Both titles are used interchangeably in classic film circles, so collectors and cinephiles should be aware that Obsession (1949) and The Hidden Room are one and the same.

Cast and Characters

Obsession boasts a superb ensemble cast, each actor delivering performances that heighten the film’s psychological tension:

• Robert Newton as Dr. Clive Riordan

• Sally Gray as Storm Riordan

• Phil Brown as Bill Kronin

• Naunton Wayne as Inspector Finsbury

Robert Newton’s portrayal of Dr. Riordan is especially chilling, capturing the character’s intelligence, emotional turmoil, and descent into cold-blooded obsession.

Genre: British Noir Crime Thriller

While Obsession is firmly rooted in the film noir tradition—with its shadowy visuals, morally ambiguous characters, and themes of betrayal—it also stands out as a British psychological thriller. The film’s meticulous plotting, understated performances, and London backdrop distinguish it from its American noir counterparts, offering a unique blend of suspense and sophistication.

Colorization: Bringing Noir to Life

This newly colorized edition of Obsession breathes fresh life into its moody visuals. The painstaking restoration process enhances the film’s atmospheric lighting and period detail, from the rain-soaked London streets to the eerie confines of the hidden room. The colorization respects the original noir aesthetic, using a muted palette that preserves the film’s sense of dread and tension while making it more accessible to modern viewers.

Technical Details

• Director: Edward Dmytryk

• Screenplay: Alec Coppel (adapted from his novel “A Man About a Dog”)

• Cinematography: C.M. Pennington-Richards

• Production Company: Independent Sovereign Films

• Distributed by: Eagle-Lion Films (UK and US)

• Runtime: 96 minutes

• Resolution: HD (1080p)

• Download Format: MP4

• Compatibility: Works on smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs

Critical Reception and Legacy

Upon its release, Obsession was praised for its intelligent script, taut direction, and standout performances—especially Robert Newton’s chilling turn as the vengeful psychiatrist. The film’s methodical pacing and psychological depth set it apart from more sensationalist crime dramas of the era. Over the decades, Obsession (aka The Hidden Room) has gained a reputation as a hidden gem of British cinema, admired for its suspenseful storytelling and noir atmosphere.

Today, the film is celebrated by noir enthusiasts and classic movie fans alike, and its themes of jealousy, control, and the consequences of obsession remain as relevant as ever.

FAQs

• Q: Is Obsession (1949) the same film as The Hidden Room?
  A: Yes, both titles refer to the same film. “Obsession” is the UK title, while “The Hidden Room” was used for its US release.

• Q: What makes this version of Obsession unique?
  A: This edition is fully colorized and restored in HD, offering a fresh visual experience while preserving the film’s original tension and mood.

• Q: Who are the main stars of Obsession?
  A: Robert Newton leads the cast as Dr. Clive Riordan, with strong support from Sally Gray, Phil Brown, and Naunton Wayne.

• Q: What genre does Obsession fall under?
  A: The film is a British noir crime thriller with strong psychological suspense elements.

• Q: Where can I download Obsession (1949) in colorized HD?
  A: The restored, colorized version is available for HD download in MP4 format, compatible with most modern devices.

Download Now in HD!

Unlock the suspense and intrigue of Obsession (1949) in stunning color—download the colorized HD version today and experience a British noir classic like never before!