Detour

Year: 1945

Grade: B

Country: USA

Director: Ulmer

Review

pretty straight-ahead film noir here. i think what separates it from the pack, though, is 1) its ability to succeed despite the b-grade production values and 2) the fact that it takes the noir philosophy to, what seems to me, the very extremes with an ending that is darker and more fatalistic than even that of kubrick’s “the killing.” expect the usual noir fare – plenty of excessive shadows, flashback telling of the majority of the plot, plenty of voice-over and a no-win philosophy throughout. just under 70 minutes, but i like it that way. definitely worth while for those who like noir or want an introduction.