YouTube Noir — Noirvember Day 25: Odd Man Out (1947)

I’d heard about today’s YouTube pick for years, but I never had any real interest in seeing it.

Once I finally decided to check it out, I was blown away.

Odd Man Out (1947) stars James Mason, but he may be the only performer in the film that you’ve ever heard of. But, believe me, it won’t matter one bit. This is one cracking good movie, and you simply must do yourself a favor and see it.

WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

Mason stars as Johnny McQueen, the leader of an underground organization in Ireland. When Johnny is wounded during the commission of a robbery designed to secure funds for the group, he finds himself the subject of a citywide manhunt. (This has got to be the most boring synopsis I’ve ever written. Trust me – the movie is so much better than I’ve made it sound here.)

WHAT ELSE?

This British noir was directed by Carol Reed, who also helmed The Third Man (1949), starring Joseph Cotten and Orson Welles.

The film was the first British movie to with the BAFTA award for Best British Film.

Mason called this the best performance of his career.

James Mason called his performance in Odd Man Out the best of his career. (I agree.)

Actor Stewart Granger was reportedly offered the role played by Mason, but turned it down because of the dearth of dialogue. He later regretted his decision, particularly when he saw the positive impact the film had on Mason’s career.

TOMORROW . . .

Join me for my next YouTube recommendation on Day 26 of Noirvember!

~ by shadowsandsatin on November 25, 2020.