"First is first, and second is nobody."       Shot in only 26 days, The Big Combo (1955) is a masterpiece of American film noir, directed by Joseph H. Lewis, who also helmed the classic Gun Crazy. Written by Philip Yordan and shot by the legendary cinematographer John Alton, the film is a stunning example of how to create a moody and atmospheric crime drama on a low budget. Lewis's style mainly involves capturing scenes without any cuts or breaks. Then incorporating Alton's elements like black velvet, a fog machine, and well-placed single lights, it skillfully creates an enchanting chiaroscuro effect. Co-produced and starring Cornel Wilde, featuring Helen Walker (known for her role in Nightmare Alley) in her final performance, and with Helene Stanton portraying his burlesque dancer girlfriend. But this film also showcases the exceptional talent of Richard Conte, who delivers a chilling portrayal of a sadistic crime boss, his second in command Brian Donlevy who he lov...

  My wife told me one of the sweetest things one could hear: 'I am not jealous. But I am truly sad for all the actresses who embrace you and kiss you while acting, for with them, you are only pretending.'    

  “Naturally, the nearer the character you play comes to the character you are, the more authenticity you give it. You are not acting so much as being. The result is realism”