Double Indemnity (1943)

Double Indemnity is a straightforward story through and through. It's a film noir in the most classical sense, a simple and dark story about doing foolish things without heed of consequence. It was made in 1943, when film noir was brand new, barely breaking through the door. For DI to be as focused and good as it was for the time period is very impressive. The things that bothered me the most about the film stem from my own upbringing in contemporary films, I saw elements such as developed characters and genuine motivations missing here. I didn't think the film was clear enough with the honest motivations of Neff for doing what he does, as well as his overwhelming willingness to take a life. The film is more concerned with the events happening, the mood, and the conventions of the genre rather than it is with the characters making sense. This seems to be a flaw almost universal for films of the time period, though, so I have to be somewhat forgiving. For all the aspects of the film I disliked, I liked just as many if not more.


The film is entertaining, first and foremost. It may be predictable, but the interaction between the characters is fun and simple. The film takes plenty of time with it's story and doesn't try to move things along at a quick pace, allowing the audience to absorb the atmosphere and enjoy the ride. It takes you on a slight emotional ride, as well, getting you to hope the newly in love couple is going to make it against all odds. But quickly enough the viewer realizes that Phyllis can't be as genuine as she seems, and Keyes will find out eventually what really happened. It's not as easy as a straight line down the middle, there's always the unexpected variables and the true intentions of people involved to be put into consideration. Fate has it's own way of creating bad endings to situations that seem simple, and in the end no one can escape what's coming to them. The lighting and camera work is all top notch, very evocative of the time period and the mood the story tries to convey. Overall, the film is quintessential film noir, one of the true originators of the genre. It's a prime example of how the concept of noir first came to be, as well as a good point to look back on when observing how the genre has evolved. Not only is it historically important, but it's a fun film to watch.