Each Dawn I Die! A Noir Masterpiece Lost To Time
“Each Dawn I Die,” a 1939 film noir directed by the renowned William Keighley, stands as a testament to the genre’s captivating blend of crime, desperation, and moral ambiguity. While not widely recognized today, this cinematic gem deserves rediscovery for its gripping narrative, stellar performances, and stark portrayal of a society grappling with the harsh realities of poverty and social injustice.
The story revolves around Joe, played by the enigmatic George Raft, a hardened ex-con determined to leave his past behind and forge a new life. Released from prison after serving time for manslaughter, he finds himself drawn back into the criminal underworld when his former cellmate, the cunning and ruthless “Bugsy” Malone (played with chilling intensity by Humphrey Bogart), blackmails him into participating in a heist.
Joe, desperate to escape the clutches of his past, reluctantly agrees. However, as events unfold, he becomes entangled in a web of deceit and betrayal, caught between the seductive allure of quick riches and the gnawing desire for redemption. Adding to the complexity are Kay (played by the effervescent Olive Hilliard), a spirited nightclub singer who captures Joe’s heart, and Eddie, a naive young man lured into Joe’s scheme with promises of easy money.
Themes and Symbolism
“Each Dawn I Die” delves into themes that resonate deeply with audiences even today:
| Theme | Description |
|---|---|
| Redemption | Joe’s struggle to escape his past and forge a new identity highlights the enduring power of hope and the possibility for change, even in the face of adversity. |
| Social Injustice | The film paints a stark picture of a society marked by economic inequality and rampant corruption, where individuals are often forced into desperate measures to survive. |
| Moral Ambiguity | Keighley masterfully blurs the lines between right and wrong, presenting characters who are driven by complex motivations and grapple with difficult choices. |
Visual Style and Cinematography:
The film’s visual style is distinctly noir, characterized by shadowy cinematography, stark contrasts of light and dark, and evocative close-ups that capture the emotional turmoil of its characters. The use of deep focus allows for a sense of depth and complexity within each frame, drawing viewers into Joe’s claustrophobic world.
Production Details:
- Release Date: February 1939
- Director: William Keighley
- Screenplay: Robert Rossen, based on the novel “Each Dawn I Die” by Jerome Cady
- Studio: Warner Bros.
- Running Time: 78 minutes
Impact and Legacy:
While not a commercial success upon its initial release, “Each Dawn I Die” has gained recognition over time as a precursor to classic film noir. Its exploration of morally ambiguous characters, its gritty depiction of urban life, and its atmospheric cinematography have influenced generations of filmmakers.
Though overshadowed by other iconic films from the era, “Each Dawn I Die” remains a captivating cinematic experience that offers a glimpse into the shadows of American society during the late 1930s. For those seeking a dark and brooding masterpiece, this film noir gem is well worth rediscovering.