The Chase (1946)

 

The Chase (1946)

'The Chase' is a 1946 American film noir directed by Arthur Ripley, based on the novel 'The Black Path of Fear' by Cornell Woolrich, a master of suspense fiction. The film stars Robert Cummings, Michèle Morgan and Steve Cochran. Known for its dream-like atmosphere, psychological tension and unexpected twists, 'The Chase stands out as one of the most unusual and surreal film noirs of the 1940s.

Plot Summary

Chuck Scott (Robert Cummings), a troubled World War II veteran battling memories of the past, finds a lost wallet on the street and returns it to its owner—Miami mob boss Eddie Roman. Impressed by Chuck’s honesty, Roman hires him as a chauffeur. While working for him, Chuck becomes drawn to Roman’s wife, the lonely and mistreated Lorna (Michèle Morgan). The two plan to escape to Cuba to free Lorna from her abusive husband.

But their escape takes a shocking turn—an unexpected murder, a winding investigation, and a haunting series of dreamlike events blur the line between reality and nightmare. The film keeps viewers guessing until the very end with its mysterious plot and dark psychological undertones.

Main Cast

Robert Cummings as Chuck Scott
Michèle Morgan as Lorna Roman
Steve Cochran as Eddie Roman
Peter Lorre as Gino
Jack Holt as Captain Davidson

Movie Details

Title: The Chase
Director: Arthur Ripley
Producer: Seymour Nebenzal
Screenplay: Philip Yordan
Based On: 'The Black Path of Fear' by Cornell Woolrich
Starring: Robert Cummings, Michèle Morgan, Steve Cochran, Peter Lorre
Music By: Michel Michelet
Cinematography: Franz Planer
Editor: George McGuire
Production Company: Nero Films
Distributor: United Artists
Release Date: November 22, 1946
Runtime: 86 minutes
Country: United States
Language: English
Genre: Film Noir, Crime, Mystery

Production Background

'The Chase' was produced by 'Benedict Bogeaus Productions' and distributed by 'United Artists'. The film was adapted from Cornell Woolrich’s dark and suspenseful novel, known for its unreliable reality and psychological depth. Director 'Arthur Ripley' emphasized atmosphere over logic, resulting in a film that feels dreamlike, with abrupt plot shifts and surreal sequences.

Though it received mixed reviews on release, it gained cult status over the decades due to its bold storytelling style and Woolrich’s signature noir mood.

It is not a typical noir—it blends crime with surreal dream sequences, giving it a unique identity in the genre.

Themes

Escaping Abuse: Lorna wants freedom from her violent husband.
Trauma and Memory: Chuck’s wartime experiences shape his fragile mental state.
Reality vs. Illusion: The film frequently blurs what is real and imagined.
Control and Power: Eddie Roman exerts intimidation and dominance over everyone around him.

Movie Review

'The Chase' is a stylish and atmospheric noir that stands out for its unusual storytelling. Instead of a straightforward crime plot, the film offers dreamy visuals, surprising twists and psychological tension. Robert Cummings delivers a sympathetic performance as a troubled veteran, while Peter Lorre gives a memorable supporting performance with his trademark eerie charm.

Although the plot can feel confusing at times, the movie’s mood and unique structure make it a fascinating classic for noir fans.

Interesting Facts

- Based on Cornell Woolrich’s novel, known for inspiring many noir films.
- Peter Lorre improvised several of his scenes, adding to the film’s eerie mood.
- The film’s surreal twist caused debate among audiences for decades.
- 'The Chase' became more appreciated as a cult classic long after its original release.

'The Chase' (1946) is a haunting and memorable film noir that mixes crime, mystery and psychological tension into a unique cinematic experience. With its dark atmosphere, unconventional narrative and strong performances, it remains a standout title in 1940s noir cinema and a must-watch for fans of classic mystery films.