Between Midnight and Dawn
Between Midnight and Dawn

Movie spotlight

Between Midnight and Dawn

1950
Movie
89 min
English

Rocky and Dan, war buddies, are prowl car cops on night duty. Dan is a cynic who views all lawbreakers as scum; Rocky feels more lenient. Both are attracted to the radio voice of communicator Kate Mallory; but in person, Kate proves reluctant to get involved with men who just might stop a bullet. By lucky chance, Rocky and Dan cause big trouble for murderous racketeer Ritchie Garris; but when he swears vengeance, Kate's fears may prove justified.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Director: Joseph PevneyGenres: Crime, Film Noir

Plot Summary

A dedicated police detective is caught in a moral dilemma when his former partner, now a criminal, resurfaces and seeks his help. The detective must navigate a dangerous path between his duty to the law and his loyalty to his friend, all while a relentless prosecutor closes in. This noir thriller explores themes of corruption, redemption, and the blurred lines between good and evil in a gritty urban landscape.

Critical Reception

The film was generally met with a mixed to positive reception, appreciated for its taut pacing and strong performances in the noir tradition. While not a breakout hit, it's recognized as a solid entry in the crime drama genre of the era, praised for its suspenseful narrative and atmospheric depiction of city life.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its effective noir atmosphere and suspenseful storyline.

  • Edmond O'Brien's performance as the conflicted detective is a highlight.

  • The film offers a compelling exploration of moral ambiguity and loyalty.

Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available through Google reviews for this specific title.

Fun Fact

The film is notable for its depiction of Los Angeles police procedures and street life during the late 1940s, providing a snapshot of the era's urban environment.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
John Chard

John Chard

Here, buy yourself a new head. One with a brain in it! Between Midnight and Dawn is directed by Gordon Douglas and adapted to screenplay by Eugene Ling from a story by Gerald Drayson Adams and Leo Katcher. It stars Edmond O'Brien, Mark ...