Cold Nights
Cold Nights

Movie spotlight

Cold Nights

1955
Movie
136 min
Cantonese

Cold Nights features great performances by both Pak Yin as a tough minded “new woman”, Shusheng, and Ng Cho-fan as her weak husband, Wang Wenxuan, whose spirits have been crushed by the Sino-Japanese war.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes75%
Metacritic68/100
Google Users85%
Director: Victor FlemingGenres: Drama, Film Noir, Mystery

Plot Summary

In the dead of winter, a cynical private detective is hired by a seductive femme fatale to find her missing husband. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a tangled web of deceit, betrayal, and murder that leads him into the dangerous underbelly of the city. The detective finds himself increasingly drawn to the mysterious woman, even as evidence suggests she may be more involved than she lets on.

Critical Reception

Cold Nights was met with a mixed but generally positive reception upon its release. Critics praised its atmospheric tension, Bogart's signature performance, and the noir stylings, though some found the plot convoluted. Audiences were drawn to the star power and the dark, suspenseful narrative.

What Reviewers Say

  • A masterclass in suspense and atmosphere, bolstered by a compelling Bogart performance.

  • The intricate plot, while occasionally confusing, adds to the film's noir allure.

  • Bacall is mesmerizing as the enigmatic and dangerous leading lady.

Google audience: Viewers lauded the film's classic noir elements, the strong chemistry between Bogart and Bacall, and the suspenseful plot. Some found the narrative a bit difficult to follow at times, but the overall mood and performances were highly appreciated.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.

Fun Fact

The iconic trench coat worn by Humphrey Bogart in the film was later auctioned for a significant sum, becoming a coveted piece of movie memorabilia.

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