Movie Monday: Dark Passage (1947)

A drama that has stood the test of time is Dark Passage! This one of the iconic Bogie and Bacall films, and an intense one at that. All of these elements are the reason why Dark Passage is such a perfect fit for Movie Monday!

One of the best aspects of Dark Passage is the cinematography choices they made. A large portion of this film is viewed from Humphrey Bogart’s point of view. Everything is seen through his eyes and from his perspective. This was what initially drew me into this movie. The artistic choice to not show the leading man’s face was a bold move. Eventually Bogart does show his face on camera, but it definitely takes a while into the film until he does so.

The decision to use the camera as a way of showing you his position makes the co-stars in Dark Passage have to be on the top of their game. In reality, they are leading this story in the beginning and they are carrying this film. That is why the casting of Lauren Bacall (Humphrey Bogart’s ultimate leading lady) so perfect. Only Bacall would be able to play off of Bogart so well even when he is not on screen.

It’s the mystery of not knowing what will happen next or who is good and bad that makes Dark Passage such an exciting drama. There is no clear cute good or bad person in this film until the very end. So much of what happens in this movie actually takes place off screen, but that just adds to the mystery. Bogart creates a character (with the help of Lauren Bacall) that you feel yourself rooting for and you don’t know why. While watching this movie I found myself wanting Bogart’s character to get away.

If you are looking for a good film to watch that feels more like reading a suspenseful book then watch Dark Passage. This movie has artistic choices, fantastic acting, and a story plot that will leave you wanting to re-watch this whole movie.

Much Love,

Sarah