Download The Boss (1956) Colorized HD | John Payne | Gritty Political Noir Drama

Ruthless Ambition and Political Corruption: The Boss (1956) in Vivid Color

Dive into the shadowy world of American city politics with “The Boss” (1956), now available in a stunning colorized HD edition. This gripping noir drama, directed by Byron Haskin and featuring a powerhouse performance from John Payne, explores the dark side of ambition, loyalty, and betrayal. The film, sometimes referenced as “El Jefe” in international circles, stands as a searing portrait of a man consumed by his own hunger for power, making it a must-see for fans of classic crime dramas and political thrillers.

The Boss (1956): A Story of Power, Betrayal, and Downfall

Returning home at the end of World War I, Matt Brady (John Payne) finds himself in the shadow of his older brother Tim, a political kingpin with a tight grip on the city. Matt, impulsive and quick-tempered, soon spirals into a series of poor decisions—starting with a drunken marriage to the plain but kind-hearted Lorry Reed (Gloria McGehee). When Tim dies suddenly, Matt inherits both his brother’s political machine and his enemies.

As the years pass, Matt’s ruthless tactics and unchecked ambition transform him into a feared ward boss, extending his influence from city hall to the statehouse. His methods grow increasingly corrupt: he profits from insider deals, aligns himself with gangsters like Johnny Mazia, and manipulates those closest to him, including his loyal friend-turned-lawyer Bob Herrick (William Bishop) and his long-suffering wife Lorry.

But power comes at a price. Matt’s personal relationships deteriorate, his fortune crumbles with the stock market crash, and his criminal entanglements spiral into violence. When his world finally collapses, Matt faces betrayal from those he once trusted most, leading to a dramatic and lonely downfall behind bars. “The Boss” delivers a relentless, unvarnished look at the seduction and destruction of political power.

Cast and Characters

• John Payne as Matt Brady: The film’s tormented antihero, whose relentless drive for control leads to his undoing.

• William Bishop as Bob Herrick: Matt’s friend and legal counsel, whose loyalty is tested by the boss’s increasing corruption.

• Gloria McGehee as Lorry Reed: Matt’s wife, caught in a loveless marriage and trapped by his ambition.

• Doe Avedon as Elsie Reynolds: The woman Matt loses in his pursuit of power.

• Roy Roberts as Tim Brady: Matt’s older brother and the original political boss.

• Rhys Williams as Stanley Millard: A key figure in Matt’s political machine.

• Joe Flynn as Ernie Jackson: One of Matt’s cronies.

• Robin Morse as Johnny Mazia: The gangster who draws Matt deeper into the criminal underworld.

Genre and Style

“The Boss” is a gritty political noir drama, blending the hard edges of classic film noir with the intrigue of a political thriller. Its narrative is steeped in the traditions of American crime cinema, with a focus on the psychological unraveling of its central character. The film’s unflinching portrayal of corruption, violence, and moral decay sets it apart as a standout entry in the genre.

Historical Context and Production

Released in 1956, “The Boss” arrived at a time when Hollywood was grappling with the aftermath of the blacklist era. The screenplay, penned by the legendary Dalton Trumbo under a pseudonym, brings a sharp, unsentimental edge to the story. Director Byron Haskin’s approach is direct and unembellished, letting the bleakness of Matt Brady’s world speak for itself.

The film’s depiction of urban political machines draws on real-life scandals and the notorious influence of ward bosses in early 20th-century American cities. While the story is fictional, its themes of ambition, loyalty, and corruption resonate with historical realities, making it both a compelling drama and a cautionary tale.

Colorization and Restoration

This colorized edition of “The Boss” breathes new life into the film’s stark black-and-white visuals. The colorization process enhances the period details—from the smoky backrooms of city hall to the bustling streets of the 1920s—while preserving the moody lighting and atmospheric tension that define classic noir. The HD restoration ensures crisp, vibrant images, making this version the definitive way to experience the film.

Technical Details

• Director: Byron Haskin

• Screenplay: Dalton Trumbo (as Ben L. Perry), Ben Perry

• Cinematography: Hal Mohr

• Music: Albert Glasser

• Runtime: 89 minutes

• Production Company: Frank Seltzer Productions, Window Productions

• Distributed by: United Artists

• Download Format: MP4

• Resolution: HD (1080p)

• Compatibility: Works on all major devices—smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs.

Critical Reception and Legacy

“The Boss” is recognized for its unflinching portrayal of political corruption and the psychological toll of unchecked ambition. John Payne’s performance is widely regarded as one of his best, capturing the grim determination and ultimate emptiness of Matt Brady. The film’s script, direction, and supporting cast contribute to its status as a hidden gem among 1950s crime dramas.

While not as widely known as other noir classics, “The Boss” stands out for its raw intensity and its willingness to confront the darker side of the American dream. Fans of political thrillers, noir, and mid-century cinema will find much to appreciate in this restored, colorized edition.

FAQs

• Is “The Boss” (1956) based on a true story?
  While inspired by real-life political machines, the story and characters are fictional.

• What makes this version unique?
  This edition features a professional colorization and HD restoration, offering a fresh visual experience while preserving the film’s original atmosphere.

• Who are the main stars of “The Boss”?
  John Payne leads as Matt Brady, with William Bishop and Gloria McGehee in key supporting roles.

• What genre does “The Boss” belong to?
  The film is best described as a political noir drama, blending elements of crime, psychological thriller, and social commentary.

• Can I watch “The Boss” on modern devices?
  Yes, the download is compatible with all major devices in HD quality.

Download Now in HD!

Witness the rise and fall of Matt Brady—download “The Boss” (1956) colorized in HD today and experience a noir classic like never before!