>
The Outfit (1973): A Film Noir Masterpiece
A New Film Noir Classic
Released in 1973, The Outfit is a stylish and suspenseful film noir that has been largely overlooked by modern audiences. Directed by John Flynn and starring Robert Duvall, Karen Black, and Robert Ryan, The Outfit is a taut and gripping thriller that deserves to be rediscovered.
A Classic Film Noir Setting
The film is set in Kansas City in the 1950s, a time and place that is perfectly suited for a film noir. The city is corrupt and violent, and the characters are all flawed and damaged. Duvall plays Earl Macklin, a small-time tailor who gets caught up in a dangerous game when he agrees to make a suit for a local gangster. Black plays Macklin's wife, Beth, who is a former prostitute and is still struggling to escape her past. Ryan plays Alderman Francis Slade, a corrupt politician who is involved in the city's criminal underworld.
A Gripping Plot
The plot of The Outfit is simple but effective. Macklin is hired to make a suit for a local gangster, but he soon learns that the suit is intended to be used in a murder. Macklin tries to back out of the deal, but the gangsters are not about to let him go. Macklin is forced to go on the run, and he must use all of his skills to stay alive.
A Stylish and Atmospheric Film
The Outfit is a stylish and atmospheric film that perfectly captures the look and feel of the film noir genre. The cinematography is dark and moody, and the use of shadows and light is masterful. The film's score is also excellent, and it helps to create a sense of tension and suspense.
A Great Cast
The Outfit features a great cast of actors who all give excellent performances. Duvall is excellent as Macklin, and he perfectly captures the character's vulnerability and strength. Black is also excellent as Beth, and she brings a lot of heart and soul to the role. Ryan is also excellent as Slade, and he creates a truly menacing villain.
A Film Noir Masterpiece
The Outfit is a film noir masterpiece that is both stylish and suspenseful. The film features a great cast, a gripping plot, and a stylish and atmospheric setting. If you are a fan of film noir, then you need to see The Outfit.