Noir Adaptations
TCM, beginning at 7:15 a.m.
Enjoy seven memorable films noir based on literary works, many of which have surpassed their sources of inspiration in recognition and popularity. Up first is Pitfall (1948), based on Jay Dratler’s 1947 novel The Pitfall, and starring Dick Powell and Lizabeth Scott. The next film, the film noir boxing drama The Set-Up (1949), is based on Joseph Moncure March’s 1928 poem “The Set-Up” and features Robert Ryan and Audrey Totter. After that is one of the most famous noir adaptations: the Best Picture Oscar-nominated The Maltese Falcon (1941), based on Dashiell Hammett’s novel of the same name. Writer/director John Huston earned an Oscar nod for his screenplay, while costar Sydney Greenstreet was nominated for Best Supporting Actor. Humphrey Bogart, Mary Astor and Peter Lorre also lead the cast. After that is Lady in the Lake (1946), based on Raymond Chandler’s 1943 novel The Lady in the Lake and starring Robert Montgomery (who also directed) as Chandler’s famous detective, Phillip Marlowe.
After that, Cathy O’Donnell and Farley Granger lead They Live by Night
(1948), based on Edward Anderson’s 1937 novel Thieves Like Us. Next, Barbara Stanwyck plays the title character of The Strange Love of Martha Ivers
(1946), adapted from John Patrick’s short story “Love Lies Bleeding.” The movie also features Kirk Douglas in his big-screen debut. Finally, Lana Turner, as one of the screen’s most memorable femme fatales, and John Garfield lead The Postman Always Rings Twice
(1946), the most well-known adaptation of James M. Cain’s 1934 novel of the same name.