Experience the atmospheric tension and psychological complexity of “Somewhere in the Night,” a 1946 noir mystery thriller, now beautifully colorized for a new generation of classic film lovers. Directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, this film plunges viewers into a post-war Los Angeles where nothing is as it seems, and the search for truth is as dangerous as it is desperate. With a compelling mix of suspense, romance, and existential drama, this colorized HD download brings a forgotten gem of film noir into vivid life.
The story begins in the final weeks of World War II, as a severely wounded Marine awakens in a military hospital with no memory of his past—only a reconstructed face and a bitter letter from a mysterious woman. The doctors tell him his name is George W. Taylor, but beyond that, his identity is a blank slate.
Upon his return to Los Angeles, Taylor discovers a cryptic note in his belongings about a bank account opened by a friend named Larry Cravat. Driven by the need to uncover his true identity, Taylor’s search for Cravat leads him through a labyrinth of danger, deception, and double-crosses. He is drawn into the seedy underbelly of the city, from shadowy nightclubs to waterfront docks, always one step ahead of thugs, police, and a past he cannot remember.
Taylor’s journey brings him into contact with Christy Smith, a nightclub singer who becomes his confidante and ally. As they follow the trail of clues, they are pulled deeper into a web of intrigue involving a murdered witness, a suitcase stuffed with $2 million in Nazi cash, and a series of violent confrontations with gangsters and corrupt officials. The closer Taylor gets to the truth, the more he realizes that the man he’s searching for—Larry Cravat—may be himself, and that his forgotten past is tied to murder, betrayal, and lost love.
“Somewhere in the Night” features a stellar ensemble of noir talent:
John Hodiak as George W. Taylor
Nancy Guild as Christy Smith
Lloyd Nolan as Police Lt. Donald Kendall
Richard Conte as Mel Phillips
Josephine Hutchinson as Elizabeth Conroy
Fritz Kortner as Anzelmo
Margo Woode as Phyllis
Sheldon Leonard as Police Detective
Each actor brings depth and nuance to their roles, creating a tapestry of characters who are as complex as the city they inhabit. John Hodiak’s portrayal of George Taylor is particularly compelling, capturing the vulnerability and determination of a man lost in his own life.
“Somewhere in the Night” is a classic film noir mystery thriller, blending elements of psychological drama, crime, and suspense. The film’s moody cinematography, hard-boiled dialogue, and morally ambiguous characters exemplify the best of the noir tradition, while its exploration of amnesia and identity adds a layer of existential intrigue.
Released in the immediate aftermath of World War II, “Somewhere in the Night” reflects the anxieties and uncertainties of a nation in transition. The protagonist’s amnesia serves as a metaphor for the collective trauma of the era, while the film’s gritty urban setting and shadowy visuals evoke the disillusionment of returning veterans and the moral ambiguities of postwar life.
Director Joseph L. Mankiewicz, better known for later classics, brings a sophisticated touch to the genre, infusing the film with psychological depth and narrative complexity. The screenplay, co-written by Mankiewicz, is filled with sharp twists and memorable lines, making it a standout entry in the noir canon.
This meticulously colorized edition of “Somewhere in the Night” breathes new life into the film’s iconic visuals. The restoration process involved careful digital enhancement, ensuring that every shadow, neon sign, and smoke-filled alley retains its noir atmosphere while gaining a fresh vibrancy. The colorization highlights the period detail of 1940s Los Angeles, from the glint of city lights to the rich textures of costumes and sets, making the suspense and romance even more immersive for modern audiences.
Director: Joseph L. Mankiewicz
Screenplay: Howard Dimsdale, Joseph L. Mankiewicz
Cinematography: Norbert Brodine
Edited by: Harmon Jones
Production Company: 20th Century Fox
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Runtime: 110 minutes
Download Format: MP4
Resolution: HD (1080p)
Compatibility: Works on all major devices—smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs.
“Somewhere in the Night” has been praised for its intricate plot, atmospheric direction, and standout performances. While not as widely known as some other noir classics, it remains a favorite among genre enthusiasts for its psychological depth and innovative storytelling. The film’s exploration of memory, guilt, and redemption gives it a timeless resonance, and its influence can be seen in later films dealing with amnesia and identity.
Q: What is “Somewhere in the Night” about?
A: It’s a noir thriller about a war veteran with amnesia who returns to Los Angeles to uncover his identity, only to become entangled in a deadly mystery involving murder and stolen money.
Q: Who stars in “Somewhere in the Night”?
A: The film stars John Hodiak as George Taylor and Nancy Guild as Christy Smith, with strong support from Lloyd Nolan and Richard Conte.
Q: Is this version colorized?
A: Yes, this edition has been professionally colorized and restored in HD for a vibrant viewing experience.
Q: What makes this film unique among noir movies?
A: Its focus on amnesia and identity, combined with a tightly woven plot and atmospheric visuals, sets it apart as a psychological noir.
Q: What are some alternate titles or references for this film?
A: The film is sometimes referred to as “Quelque part dans la nuit” in French releases.
Rediscover the mystery and suspense of “Somewhere in the Night”—download the colorized HD version and step into a world where every shadow holds a secret.