Blackmailed
Blackmailed

Movie spotlight

Blackmailed

1951
Movie
85 min
English

A blackmailer is murdered, and those who witnessed the scene agree to keep quiet; the complication is that the scene is also witnessed by a young artist, a victim of blackmail as well. (BFI Website)

Insights

IMDb6.4/10
Director: Edgar G. UlmerGenres: Film-Noir, Crime, Drama

Plot Summary

A wealthy and lonely widow, seeking solace after her husband's death, falls for a charming but unscrupulous drifter. Their relationship quickly turns toxic when the drifter, aided by a sinister blackmailer, begins to exploit her for her fortune. The widow finds herself trapped in a web of deceit and manipulation, forced to confront the dark secrets of her past and the dangerous men who threaten her future.

Critical Reception

While not a major critical success upon release, 'Blackmailed' has gained a cult following over the years, appreciated for its atmospheric noir elements and strong performances, particularly from Phyllis Calvert. It's often cited as an example of Edgar G. Ulmer's distinctive B-movie craftsmanship.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its effective noir atmosphere and suspense.

  • Phyllis Calvert's performance is often highlighted as a strong point.

  • Considered a well-crafted, albeit lesser-known, example of the film noir genre.

Google audience: Information not available.

Fun Fact

Edgar G. Ulmer, known for his work on B-movies like 'Detour,' brought his distinctive visual style to 'Blackmailed,' even with a limited budget.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

This is quite a cleverly conceived drama that does ask us whether, ever, two wrongs might actually make a right. It’s after “Mary” (Shirley Wright) is involved in a road accident that hospital almoner “Mrs. Christopher” (Fay Compton) is cal...