The Killers (1946)

 

The Killers (1946)

'The Killers' is a classic American film noir released in 1946, directed by Robert Siodmak. The film stars Burt Lancaster, Ava Gardner, Sam Levene and Edmond O’Brien. Known for its dark atmosphere, suspenseful storytelling and complex characters, 'The Killers' is based on a short story by Ernest Hemingway. It is regarded as one of the most influential film noirs of the 1940s and helped launch Burt Lancaster’s career as a leading actor.

Plot Summary

The story begins when two professional killers arrive in a small town to assassinate a man named “the Swede”, played by Burt Lancaster. The Swede accepts his fate calmly, refusing to run or resist. This event prompts a reporter, Jim Reardon, to investigate the Swede’s past to understand why he was targeted. Through a series of flashbacks, the film reveals the Swede’s involvement with crime, love, betrayal and greed. The narrative explores his relationships with a femme fatale named Anna, played by Ava Gardner and the dangerous underworld that ultimately leads to his downfall. The film’s structure, using non-linear storytelling and multiple perspectives, deepens the mystery and suspense.

Main Cast

Burt Lancaster as Ole “Swede” Andreson

Ava Gardner as Kitty Collins

Edmond O’Brien as Jim Reardon (Reporter)

Sam Levene as Lieutenant Sam Lubinsky

Movie information

Title: The Killers

Year: 1946

Director: Robert Siodmak

Producer: Mark Hellinger

Screenplay: Anthony Veiller

Based On: “The Killers” by Ernest Hemingway (short story)

Stars: Burt Lancaster, Ava Gardner, Edmond O’Brien, Sam Levene

Music By: Miklós Rózsa

Cinematography: Elwood Bredell

Editing: Arthur Hilton

Production Company: Universal Pictures

Distributor: Universal Pictures

Release Date: July 17, 1946 (USA)

Runtime: 103 minutes

Genre: Film Noir, Crime, Thriller

Language: English

Country: United States

Production Background

Directed by Robert Siodmak and produced by Universal Pictures, 'The Killers' was adapted from Ernest Hemingway’s short story of the same name. The screenplay was written by 'Anthony Veiller'. The film’s stylistic use of shadows, voiceovers and flashbacks epitomizes the film noir genre. Burt Lancaster made his film debut in this movie and his performance was widely praised. The film also boosted Ava Gardner’s rising star status.

Themes

Fate and Death: The inevitability of the Swede’s murder looms over the entire film.

Betrayal and Greed: Human weaknesses that lead to tragic consequences.

Love and Deception: Complex relationships with femme fatales and criminals.

Moral Ambiguity: Characters often operate in gray areas between good and evil.

Movie Review

'The Killers' is a masterful example of film noir, combining a gripping narrative with atmospheric direction and strong performances. Burt Lancaster’s debut role as the doomed Swede is compelling and memorable. Ava Gardner shines as the enigmatic femme fatale. The movie’s non-linear storytelling keeps the audience engaged and adds depth to the characters’ motivations. Though the film includes moments of violence, it relies heavily on tension, mood and psychological drama rather than physical action. It remains a timeless classic in American cinema.

Interesting Facts

- Burt Lancaster was discovered by chance and cast in his first film here.

- The film popularized many film noir techniques used in later movies.

- Ernest Hemingway’s original short story is only about 4,000 words long.

- The movie was remade in 1964 with a different cast and style.

'The Killers' (1946) is a gripping and stylish film noir classic that launched the career of Burt Lancaster and cemented Ava Gardner’s star power. Its dark themes, suspenseful storytelling and memorable performances make it essential viewing for fans of classic Hollywood cinema and crime thrillers.