Pitfall (1948)

Synopsis: Based on Jay Dratler's novel THE PITFALL, André de Toth's gripping film is a classic L.A. noir in the tradition of DETOUR, and shows the spiraling, epic consequences resulting from one fateful... Based on Jay Dratler's novel THE PITFALL, André de Toth's gripping film is a classic L.A. noir in the tradition of DETOUR, and shows the spiraling, epic consequences resulting from one fateful decision. John Forbes (Dick Powell) is bored with his routine job at Olympic Mutual Insurance Company and craves adventure beyond his stable home with his loving wife, Sue (Jane Wyatt), and their young son. Forbes gets his wish when he takes over an embezzlement case from sinister private detective and ex-cop, MacDonald (Raymond Burr), and meets sultry, blonde dress model, Mona Stevens (Lizabeth Scott). Forbes must repossess gifts given to Mona by jailed embezzler Bill Smiley (Byron Barr), but instead finds himself spending an afternoon on Mona's boat, the aptly named Tempest. One rendezvous leads to another, but trouble swiftly arrives for the lovers when the jealous MacDonald begins stalking Mona and threatening Johnny. As Mac's sadistic obsession grows, and the day of Smiley's release from prison approaches, Mona fears for her safety and Johnny longs for his lost respectability. De Toth delivers a dark cautionary tale about the consequences of betrayal and grass-is-always greener syndrome, with smart, snappy dialogue and a surprising finale. [More]

Starring: Dick Powell, Lizabeth Scott, Jane Wyatt, Raymond Burr

Starring: Dick Powell, Lizabeth Scott, Jane Wyatt, Raymond Burr, John Litel, Byron Barr, Jimmy Hunt, Ann Doran, Selmer Jackson, Margaret Wells

Director: Andre De Toth

Director: Andre De Toth
Screenwriter: Karl Kamb
Producer: Samuel Bischoff
Composer: Louis Forbes

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