One Way Street

Synopsis

One Way Street is a gripping film-noir thriller from 1950 starring James Mason. The story follows Dr. Frank Matson, who becomes embroiled in a dangerous escapade after stealing a significant sum of money from ruthless gangster John Wheeler, played by Dan Duryea. As Dr. Matson tries to escape to Mexico with his lover Laura, portrayed by Märta Torén, he finds himself on the run not only from Wheeler but also from betrayal, twists, and moral dilemmas. The movie delves into themes of redemption and the consequences of one's actions, providing a taut narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Directed by Hugo Fregonese, One Way Street combines strong character performances with compelling cinematography and an engaging storyline, making it a notable entry in the film-noir genre.

Cast

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  James Mason

  Dr. Frank Matson

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  Märta Torén

  Laura Thorsen

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  Dan Duryea

  John Wheeler

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  Basil Ruysdael

  Father Moreno

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  William Conrad

  Ollie

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  Rodolfo Acosta

  Francisco Morales

Reviews

One Way Street has garnered mixed reviews since its release. According to IMDb, the film holds a respectable rating of 6.5/10. Many viewers appreciate James Mason's performance as Dr. Frank Matson, with his portrayal of the morally conflicted protagonist being a standout element. Rotten Tomatoes does not feature a score for this specific title, reflecting its somewhat niche viewership but generally appreciative audience. Classic movie aficionados over at Metacritic have praised the movie’s intense narrative and thematic depth, though they pointed out some pacing issues that hamper its overall impact. Tom Milne from Time Out lauds the film's 'uncompromisingly bleak and gripping atmosphere,' while Bosley Crowther of The New York Times notes that 'the film's strong point is the tension-filled scenes beautifully acted by Mason and the supporting cast.' However, some critics argue that the storyline can be somewhat predictable and formulaic, which detracts from its originality within the genre. Despite such critiques, One Way Street is frequently highlighted for its high dramatic tension and its exploration of the noir motif of inescapable destiny.