Carol Reed – A Brit in the Shadows

When someone suggests a great starting point for viewing British cinema, the names of David Lean or the team of Powell and Pressburger generally come to mind.  To understand the global attitude after World War II, film noir is often suggested.  I would like you to consider three films by Carol Reed that would serve as both of the above.  In the years of 1947, 1948 and 1949, Carol Reed made three films that are some of the best of British film and show the fears of the world after Hitler.  These are shadow laden, black and white movies that have elements of suspense and fear within all of them.  The use of light and camera angles have never been better shown.  All three movies drip post war paranoia and suspicion.  They feature wonderful performances by Joseph Cotton, James Mason and Ralph Richardson.  I give you: Odd Man Out, The Fallen Idol and The Third Man.  Watch them in tandem and enjoy.

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