Immerse yourself in the dark alleys of post-war New York City with The Dark Corner, a riveting film noir from 1946, now beautifully colorized to enhance its atmospheric storytelling. Directed by Henry Hathaway, this tale of betrayal, murder, and redemption showcases a stellar cast led by Lucille Ball and Clifton Webb. Whether you’re a fan of classic noir or new to the genre, this HD download brings a forgotten gem of cinematic history to life with vivid visuals.
Private investigator Bradford Galt (Mark Stevens) has relocated to New York City to escape his troubled past in San Francisco, where his former partner Tony Jardine (Kurt Kreuger) framed him for manslaughter. However, Galt’s attempt at a fresh start is thwarted when he finds himself being followed by Fred Foss (William Bendix), a hulking figure in a white suit hired by Jardine.
As Galt tries to uncover the motives behind this surveillance, he becomes entangled in a web of deceit involving wealthy art gallery owner Hardy Cathcart (Clifton Webb). Cathcart’s obsession with his wife Mari (Cathy Downs) leads to a sinister plot that implicates Galt in murder. With the help of his resourceful secretary Kathleen Stewart (Lucille Ball), Galt must navigate treacherous waters to clear his name and expose the true culprits behind the conspiracy.
This gripping narrative combines suspenseful twists with moments of sharp dialogue and character-driven drama, making The Dark Corner a standout example of film noir.
The film features an impressive ensemble cast that brings its shadowy world to life:
Lucille Ball as Kathleen Stewart
Mark Stevens as Bradford Galt
Clifton Webb as Hardy Cathcart
William Bendix as Fred Foss
Cathy Downs as Mari Cathcart
Kurt Kreuger as Tony Jardine
The Dark Corner is a quintessential film noir infused with elements of suspense thriller and melodrama. Its moody cinematography, morally ambiguous characters, and intricate plot exemplify the hallmarks of classic noir storytelling.
Released in 1946, The Dark Corner reflects the anxieties and disillusionment of post-war America. The film’s portrayal of corruption, betrayal, and existential struggle resonates deeply with audiences seeking escapism amidst societal upheaval. While not a commercial success upon release, it has since been recognized as a Grade A example of film noir and celebrated for its stylistic achievements.
This colorized version breathes new life into The Dark Corner, highlighting its rich visual textures while preserving the original moodiness that defines its noir aesthetic. The painstaking restoration process involved advanced digital techniques to assign appropriate colors to each frame, enhancing details like shadowy alleyways, vintage costumes, and intricate set designs.
The result is an immersive viewing experience that bridges the gap between classic cinema and modern technology, making it accessible to contemporary audiences while honoring its historical significance.
Director: Henry Hathaway
Screenplay: Jay Dratler & Bernard C. Schoenfeld
Based on: A story by Leo Rosten published in Good Housekeeping
Cinematography: Joseph MacDonald
Music: Cyril J. Mockridge
Production Company: 20th Century Fox
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Runtime: 99 minutes
Download Format: MP4
Resolution: HD (1080p)
Compatibility: Works seamlessly on smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
While overshadowed by more commercially successful noirs like Laura or The Big Sleep, The Dark Corner has earned critical acclaim for its taut narrative and compelling performances. Bosley Crowther described it as “hard-boiled” and “well-paced,” praising its ability to maintain tension throughout. Modern critics highlight Lucille Ball’s strong performance as Kathleen Stewart—a departure from her comedic roles—and Clifton Webb’s chilling portrayal of Hardy Cathcart.
Today, the film enjoys cult status among noir enthusiasts who appreciate its atmospheric storytelling and thematic depth.
Q: Is The Dark Corner suitable for fans of classic noir?
A: Absolutely! It’s regarded as one of the finest examples of post-war film noir.
Q: How does Lucille Ball perform in this dramatic role?
A: Lucille Ball delivers a nuanced performance that balances wit and resolve—a standout departure from her comedic persona.
Q: Is this version colorized?
A: Yes! This restored version enhances the visual experience while preserving the original tone.
Q: What makes The Dark Corner unique among film noirs?
A: Its blend of suspense thriller elements with melodrama sets it apart from more formulaic entries in the genre.
Q: What resolution is available for download?
A: The film is available in HD (1080p).
Step into the shadows with The Dark Corner. Download today!