'The Green Cockatoo' (1937) Movie of the Book by Graham Greene

'The Green Cockatoo' (1937) is a British thriller film directed by William Cameron Menzies, based on a story by Graham Greene. Though not one of Greene’s more well-known adaptations, the film carries his signature themes of crime, fate, and moral ambiguity.

Plot Overview: The story is set in a seedy underworld of London, revolving around a young, innocent woman named Eileen (René Ray) who arrives in the city from the countryside, unaware of the dangers lurking in the urban shadows. She wanders into The Green Cockatoo, a nightclub that serves as a hub for criminals, including gangsters and black-market dealers.

Meanwhile, Jim Connor (John Mills), a small-time crook and a member of a gang, becomes entangled in a violent incident. When a murder occurs, Jim finds himself in possession of incriminating evidence that puts his life in danger. Seeking refuge, he crosses paths with Eileen, who is caught in the chaos despite her innocence.

As the story unfolds, Eileen becomes a target due to her accidental involvement in Jim’s predicament. The film follows their desperate attempts to escape the grip of criminals and corrupt authorities. It builds tension through atmospheric cinematography, dimly lit alleyways, and smoky nightclub scenes, evoking the noir-like themes that would later become synonymous with Greene’s work.

Themes: Innocence vs. Corruption: Eileen’s naivety contrasts with the criminal underworld, emphasizing the loss of innocence.

Fate and Circumstance: A recurring theme in Greene’s works, the film explores how individuals can be caught in situations beyond their control.

Crime and Morality: The line between criminality and survival is blurred, as Jim is neither a true villain nor a hero.

Conclusion: 'The Green Cockatoo' is a fast-paced thriller with elements of crime and suspense, reflecting Greene’s early storytelling style. While it may not have the depth of his later works, it presents a gripping narrative about ordinary people thrown into extraordinary circumstances, a hallmark of Greene’s writing.