The Chance of a Lifetime (1943) | Directed by William Castle

"The Chance of a Lifetime" is the third installment in Columbia Pictures' "Boston Blackie" series, featuring Chester Morris in the titular role of a reformed safecracker turned private investigator. The plot revolves around Boston Blackie, who is granted temporary parole to assist in a government project. However, things take a turn when Blackie gets entangled in a murder investigation involving ex-cons who were working on the project. As he seeks to clear his name and bring the real culprits to justice, Blackie finds himself in a web of deception and danger. With the help of his loyal sidekick, The Runt, and his constant nemesis, Inspector Farraday, Blackie navigates a series of twists and turns that lead to a thrilling conclusion.

Produced during the height of World War II, "The Chance of a Lifetime" is reflective of the era's fascination with crime dramas and the noir genre. The film showcases William Castle's early directorial work before he became known for his later horror films. With a runtime of just over an hour, the film is a compact, fast-paced crime story typical of the time, filled with sharp dialogue and suspenseful moments.

Critically, "The Chance of a Lifetime" is regarded as a solid entry in the Boston Blackie series, though not necessarily the standout of the franchise. Chester Morris' portrayal of Boston Blackie remains a highlight, bringing a mix of charm and streetwise savvy to the character. The supporting cast, particularly Richard Lane as the bumbling Inspector Farraday, provides both tension and comic relief. William Castle's direction is efficient, maintaining the film's brisk pace and ensuring that the plot's twists and turns are effectively communicated to the audience.

While not as critically acclaimed as other noir films of the era, "The Chance of a Lifetime" holds its own as an entertaining and well-crafted crime drama. The film's strengths lie in its concise storytelling, the strong chemistry between the lead actors, and its ability to deliver the expected thrills of a Boston Blackie adventure. It serves as a good example of 1940s B-movie crime dramas, balancing action, intrigue, and humor. Over time, the film has garnered appreciation for its historical context and as part of the larger Boston Blackie canon, particularly among fans of the genre.

As with many films from this era, preservation efforts have been crucial in maintaining the quality of "The Chance of a Lifetime" for future generations. It is often included in film noir collections and is accessible through various classic film distribution channels.

Cast:
Chester Morris as Boston Blackie
Jeannette Lane as Sally Brown
Richard Lane as Inspector Farraday
Lloyd Corrigan as Arthur Manleder
George E. Stone as The Runt
Erik Rolf as Paul Marion
Forrest Tucker as Bronson
Glenn Vernon as Joe Trilby
Walter Sande as Matthews