MovieChat Forums > Raw Deal (1948) Discussion > The Real Deal

The Real Deal

posted 18 years ago by LtdTimeAuthor
7 replies | jump to latest

I concur strongly w. Chris White's comments. I just took an Unknown Film Noir class from Brandon Lyndon at Facets (excellent on all counts), and happened to spot this on a library's shelves.

The cinematography is so gorgeous and complex visually, I was tempted to stop and explore it, but the story moves at NASCAR speed, so I plunged ahead. Scenes which in most films would be throwaways are jammed with tension and character development. While the score uses a theremin, I found the music unobtrusive.

[–] Logan-22 18 years ago

I loved the theremin score; it was unexpected (normally being associated with 1950s horror and sci-fi movies) and added to the sense of impending doom. I'll admit that the score was a little startling at first, but felt quite natural once you got used to it.

[–] Noir-It-All 17 years ago

Every noir seems to be a gem; each has something different from the others that makes it special. The female voice-over/theramin score is unique to this film. The fog at the end is right out of a horror film - or Casablanca - yet it seems right for Pat Cameron's view. I agree with you both about the cinematography. I asked my husband to come in to watch the end of the scene where the park ranger rides away. Just loved Raw Deal.

"Two more swords and I'll be Queen of the Monkey People." Roseanne

[–] 17 years ago

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[–] Noir-It-All 17 years ago

Well, I did not love that bit. It was shocking, yes. I know what you mean about the characters but I did sympathize with Pat Cameron. Joe just wanted to breathe fresh air but was also torn between two lovers. Ann had the bad luck to spend only a little time with him. You had to really be into that triangle to get into the plot. I was, and with the fantastic photography, loved the film.

"Two more swords and I'll be Queen of the Monkey People." Roseanne

[–] 17 years ago

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[–] Noir-It-All 14 years ago

I got a kick out of how undeveloped the California shoreline appeared to be in the film. I don't know that area well but I'll bet that these days the area is very developed, very expensive.

"Two more swords and I'll be Queen of the Monkey People." Roseanne

[–] DracTarashV 11 years ago

To me, "Raw Deal" is without a doubt one of the best in the genre. Such a fascinating film noir.

And yes, I was actually fond of the score.

Hey there, Johnny Boy, I hope you fry!