Strange Bargain (1949) | A film noir directed by Will Price

"Strange Bargain" is a 1949 film noir directed by Will Price, featuring Martha Scott and Jeffrey Lynn in leading roles.

Plot Summary:
The story revolves around wealthy industrialist David Farrell (Jeffrey Lynn) and his wife, Phyllis (Martha Scott). David is struck by a sudden illness, and when conventional medicine fails, he turns to a mysterious healer named J.P. Tannen (Harry Shannon). Tannen's unconventional methods seem to work, but when David unexpectedly dies, suspicions arise. Phyllis, determined to uncover the truth, launches her own investigation into the circumstances surrounding her husband's death, leading her into a web of deceit, conspiracy, and unexpected twists.

Characterization and Performances:
Martha Scott delivers a strong performance as the determined and grief-stricken Phyllis. Jeffrey Lynn portrays the enigmatic David Farrell, and Harry Shannon brings an air of mystery to the character of J.P. Tannen. The performances contribute to the film's suspenseful atmosphere.

Film Noir Elements:
"Strange Bargain" incorporates classic film noir elements, including a sense of moral ambiguity, shadowy cinematography, and a plot filled with intrigue and deception. The film explores themes of greed, manipulation, and the consequences of making deals with dubious characters.

Pacing and Suspense:
The film maintains a brisk pace, keeping the audience engaged with its mystery and suspense. As Phyllis delves deeper into the circumstances surrounding her husband's death, the plot unfolds with unexpected turns and revelations, creating a sense of tension and intrigue.

Cinematography and Visual Style:
The cinematography, likely constrained by the film's budget, features classic film noir visuals with effective use of shadows and light. While not as elaborate as some higher-budget noirs, it captures the moody atmosphere characteristic of the genre.

Mystery and Intrigue:
"Strange Bargain" weaves a compelling mystery, blending elements of crime and suspense. The film keeps the audience guessing as Phyllis discovers hidden secrets and confronts characters with questionable motives. The narrative unfolds with a series of twists that add complexity to the central mystery.

Dialogue and Script:
The dialogue in "Strange Bargain" is typical of the film noir era, with sharp exchanges and cryptic conversations. The script effectively conveys the tension and mistrust that permeate the storyline, enhancing the noir atmosphere.

Musical Score:
The film's musical score is subtle but effective in accentuating key moments and maintaining the mood. While not as iconic as some other film noir scores, it complements the overall tone of the narrative.

Conclusion:
"Strange Bargain" may not be as well-known as some classic film noirs, but it remains a solid entry in the genre. The film combines mystery, suspense, and elements of noir aesthetics to create an engaging narrative. Martha Scott's compelling performance and the film's intriguing plot contribute to its status as a hidden gem for fans of classic noir cinema.