Slightly Scarlet

Synopsis

Slightly Scarlet (1956) is a gripping film noir directed by Allan Dwan, based on a crime novel by James M. Cain. The story follows John Payne as Ben Grace, a tough detective caught in the web of two dangerous sisters, June and Dorothy Hollister, portrayed by Rhonda Fleming and Arlene Dahl. As Ben investigates corruption in the city, he finds himself entangled in a complex and seductive game of deceit, power, and betrayal. The alluring sisters use their charm and cunning to manipulate those around them, leading to a thrilling and suspenseful narrative filled with unexpected twists and turns. With its atmospheric cinematography and strong performances, Slightly Scarlet delves into the darker aspects of human nature, highlighting the allure of crime and the consequences of greed and ambition.

Cast

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  John Payne

  John Grace

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  Rhonda Fleming

  June Lyons

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  Arlene Dahl

  Dorothy Lyons

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  Kent Taylor

  Frank Jansen

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  Ted de Corsia

  Solly Caspar

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  Lance Fuller

  Gauss

Reviews

Slightly Scarlet has garnered a mixed reception among critics over the years. While some praise the film's stylish visuals and nuanced performances, others find fault with its convoluted plot and predictable narrative. Rotten Tomatoes describes it as 'a solid film noir with an interesting premise,' recognizing the film's gripping atmosphere and dynamic lead actors. On the other hand, IMDb users have given it a rating of 6.5/10, with many viewers appreciating the film's classic noir elements but noting its lack of originality in the genre. Metacritic offers a more balanced view, citing the film's strong direction and intriguing character dynamics as its main strengths. Overall, Slightly Scarlet is a film that divides opinions, with its unique blend of crime drama and psychological intrigue providing both thrills and frustrations for audiences.

See also

The Dark Knight

Pulp Fiction

The Shawshank Redemption

The Matrix