This is one of the classics of film noir. Though its bare-faced melodrama is showing, that's simply part of the noir atmosphere.
Clifton Webb is at his best here, showing his full range of moods from cynical to compassionate to downright nasty. The rest of the cast is also strong with a full range of human pettiness as well as goodness. In effect, the film is a wonderful morality play.
Of course, the theme music plays in practically every scene, but it works very well in all of its variations. See this one and enjoy the film noir formula that transcends itself, making this such a beautiful classic.
Clifton Webb is at his best here, showing his full range of moods from cynical to compassionate to downright nasty. The rest of the cast is also strong with a full range of human pettiness as well as goodness. In effect, the film is a wonderful morality play.
Of course, the theme music plays in practically every scene, but it works very well in all of its variations. See this one and enjoy the film noir formula that transcends itself, making this such a beautiful classic.