Frank Borzage’s “Moonrise” (1948)
Review by Dennis D. McDonald
I’ve heard that some consider this 1948 black-and-white film a film noir classic.
I’m not so sure about that—but it is entertaining in an odd sort of way. We see a young Lloyd Bridges bumped off right at the beginning, but after that, the story swirls almost aimlessly around an unconvincing leading man and a beautiful leading lady who behaves in completely irrational ways.
What saves the movie is its photography, editing, and overall atmosphere. Some sequences are strikingly weird and bizarre. Produced by bottom-tier Republic Studios, the low budget is apparent, but the film makes maximum and effective use of its sets—ranging from dilapidated city streets and shops to backwoods farmhouses and swamps. We even get a scene showing a raccoon being treed, supposedly a big form of entertainment in this “Deep South” Virginia setting.
Don’t expect a masterpiece. But if you do watch it, keep in mind that a lot of effort went into creating its many varied locations. We’re even treated to glimpses of a sad little carnival, complete with a strange Ferris Wheel sequence. It’s an unusual film—“film noir classic” or not.
Review copyright © 2025 Dennis D. McDonald
