The Scarlet Hour
The Scarlet Hour

Movie spotlight

The Scarlet Hour

1956
Movie
95 min
English

An unhappy wife uses her powers of manipulation to draw an infatuated man into an ill-fated jewelry heist.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: Michael GordonGenres: Crime, Film-Noir, Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

A troubled young woman, seeking to escape her past, becomes entangled with a manipulative psychiatrist and a dangerous criminal. Her attempts to build a new life are thwarted by her own psychological issues and the machinations of those around her. The film explores themes of guilt, obsession, and the destructive nature of secrets.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'The Scarlet Hour' received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its atmospheric tension and Lizabeth Scott's performance, while others found the plot convoluted and the characters unsympathetic. Over time, it has been recognized as a notable example of late film noir, appreciated for its psychological depth and stylish direction.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its moody atmosphere and effective suspense.

  • Lizabeth Scott's performance as a tormented woman is a highlight.

  • Some found the narrative confusing and the ending unsatisfying.

Google audience: Audience reception data for 'The Scarlet Hour' (1956) is not readily available on Google.

Fun Fact

Although often categorized as film noir, 'The Scarlet Hour' was released in 1956, a period when the genre was considered to be in decline or transitioning into other forms of crime dramas.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
John Chard

John Chard

The Kiss Off. The Scarlet Hour is directed by Micahel Curtiz and written by Rip Van Ronkel, Frank Tashlin and John Lucas. It stars Carol Ohmart, Tom Tryon, E.G. Marshall, Elaine Stritch, Jody Lawrance and James Gregory. Music is by Leith...