The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946) Movie Review: A Classic Film Noir of Passion and Betrayal
The Postman Always Rings Twice, released in 1946, is one of the quintessential examples of film noir, blending themes of crime, passion, and moral ambiguity into a tense and compelling narrative. Directed by Tay Garnett and starring Lana Turner and John Garfield, the film is based on James M. Cain’s 1934 novel of the same name. This adaptation has become a classic, renowned for its powerful performances, sharp dialogue, and its exploration of the dark side of human nature.
Plot Overview
The story is set in a small, rural town in California, where Frank Chambers (John Garfield), a drifter with a checkered past, finds himself at a roadside diner owned by the older and affable Nick Smith (Cecil Kellaway). It’s there that Frank meets Nick’s wife, Cora (Lana Turner), a beautiful but unhappy woman who feels trapped in her loveless marriage.
From the moment Frank and Cora meet, a dangerous attraction simmers between them. Despite their differences—Frank, the wandering loner, and Cora, the dissatisfied housewife—their desire for each other quickly escalates into a full-blown affair. Consumed by their passion and frustration with their circumstances, Frank and Cora conspire to murder Nick, hoping to start a new life together.
However, their crime doesn’t go as planned, and what follows is a suspenseful series of events that include a botched murder attempt, legal entanglements, and the eventual unraveling of their relationship. The film explores the consequences of their actions, delving into themes of guilt, betrayal, and the destructive power of greed and lust.
Characters and Performances
Lana Turner delivers one of her most iconic performances as Cora Smith, the femme fatale whose beauty and desperation drive the film’s narrative. Turner’s portrayal is both alluring and chilling, as she perfectly captures Cora’s inner turmoil and determination to escape her circumstances. Her character is a classic example of the film noir archetype, where a seemingly innocent woman is revealed to be capable of great manipulation and deceit.
John Garfield’s portrayal of Frank Chambers is equally compelling. Garfield brings a rough-edged vulnerability to the role, making Frank a character who is both tough and tragically flawed. His chemistry with Turner is palpable, and their intense, volatile relationship is the beating heart of the film. Garfield’s Frank is not merely a willing accomplice to Cora’s schemes but a man torn between his desire for her and his own moral compass.
Cecil Kellaway as Nick Smith plays his role with an affable naiveté, making the character both sympathetic and a tragic figure in the story. His portrayal of Nick as a kind but oblivious husband heightens the tension and the moral stakes for Frank and Cora.
The supporting cast, including Hume Cronyn as the cunning defense attorney Arthur Keats, adds depth to the narrative, providing a legal and ethical counterpoint to the main characters’ moral descent.
Cinematography and Direction
Tay Garnett’s direction of The Postman Always Rings Twice exemplifies the hallmarks of classic film noir. The film’s visual style, with its stark contrasts, deep shadows, and moody lighting, creates an atmosphere of tension and unease that perfectly complements the story’s dark themes. Garnett skillfully uses the confined space of the diner and the surrounding barren landscape to amplify the sense of entrapment and isolation that pervades the film.
The cinematography by Sidney Wagner further enhances the film’s noir aesthetic. The use of close-ups, especially in scenes between Frank and Cora, intensifies the emotional stakes and underscores the dangerous intimacy between them. The camera often lingers on Turner, emphasizing her role as the enigmatic and seductive femme fatale.
Themes and Symbolism
The Postman Always Rings Twice delves into the darker aspects of human nature, exploring themes such as lust, greed, betrayal, and the inevitability of fate. The film suggests that no crime goes unpunished and that the consequences of one’s actions, no matter how carefully plotted, are inescapable. The title itself is a metaphor for fate’s inevitable knock—no matter how much one tries to avoid it, it always rings twice.
The film also examines the moral ambiguity of its characters. Frank and Cora are not purely evil but rather flawed individuals driven by desperation and desire. Their tragic downfall is not just a result of their crime but also of their inability to escape the web of lies and deceit they’ve woven.
Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, The Postman Always Rings Twice was both a critical and commercial success, praised for its gripping narrative and the powerful performances of its leads. The film has since become a landmark in the film noir genre, influencing countless films that followed.
Lana Turner’s portrayal of Cora Smith is often cited as one of the definitive femme fatale performances in cinema history, and the film itself is regarded as a classic example of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Its themes, visual style, and moral complexity continue to resonate with audiences and filmmakers alike, making it a timeless piece of cinema.
Where to Watch The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946) Online in the USA
For those interested in experiencing this classic film noir, The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946) is available for streaming and rental on several platforms:
1. Amazon Prime Video
- Availability: Rent or Buy
- Price: Rent starting at $3.99; Purchase at $9.99
- Details: The film is available in standard definition, with the option to rent or buy.
2. Apple TV
- Availability: Rent or Buy
- Price: Rent starting at $3.99; Purchase at $9.99
- Details: Viewers can rent or purchase the film in standard definition.
3. Vudu
- Availability: Rent or Buy
- Price: Rent starting at $3.99; Purchase at $9.99
- Details: Vudu offers the film with rental and purchase options.
4. YouTube Movies
- Availability: Rent or Buy
- Price: Rent starting at $3.99; Purchase at $9.99
- Details: Available for streaming in standard definition.
Conclusion
The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946) is a masterful example of film noir that continues to captivate audiences with its tale of forbidden love, betrayal, and the inescapable consequences of one’s actions. With standout performances from Lana Turner and John Garfield, along with its atmospheric direction and enduring themes, this classic film remains a must-watch for fans of the genre and those interested in the darker side of human nature. Its legacy as a cornerstone of noir cinema is well-deserved, making it an essential viewing experience.
