The Captive City

Moviecut—The Captive City

A riveting film about a small town newspaper editor who simply won't quit seeking justice. I was struck by the remarkably good acting from mostly no-name actors. Also, you will certainly notice the cinematography. The use of the new Hoge lens allowed an unusual depth of focus and interior shots in low lighting. Every scene, inside and out, was shot in Reno, Nevada. The score is also noteworthy. Definitely worthwhile viewing!

An atmospheric dramatisation of the revelations about the activities of the mafia in the United States investigated by Senator Estes Kefauver; who set his seal of approval on the venture by putting in a special appearance as himself. The sensitive subject matter meant raising even a shoestring budget took more time and effort than actually making the film itself; but enhanced the atmosphere of the film itself with glacial documentary-style deep focus location work by veteran cameraman Lee Garmes. Bernard Herrmann was keen to score it but they couldn't afford him, hence the incongruously playful music recognisably the work of 'Big Country' composer Jerome Moross.

Robert Wise directs this drama about crime in a small city. John Forsythe plays Jim Austin, a small town newspaper editor that is a crusader for all that is right, and is not afraid to fight what is wrong. A local private detective, Clyde Nelson(Hal K. Dawson), is working on a simple divorce case and uncovers something way more important. Nelson discovers a major gambling ring operating in the city. He believes that a small time mob boss Murray Sirak(Victor Sutherland) has his thumb on bookie joints that occupy almost every corner in town. Nelson brings this to Austin's attention, be doesn't put faith in the story until the detective is killed in a hit-and-run accident. Austin gets a somewhat cold shoulder when he goes to the police Chief(Ray Teal); its now up to him and his paper to rid the corruption and bring honest and respectable elements to his city. Other players: Joan Camden, Paul Brinegar, Ian Wolf and Martin Milner.

This is a true story of moral heroism, as a lonely journalist struggles headstrongly against all odds and all advising against it to expose the firm grip of a town by a mafia, which apparently is expert at committing murders and getting away with it. The mood of the film is slightly paranoic, but, as usual with Robert Wise's films, it is efficiently made and keeps a firm grip on the audience to the bitter end, which comes as an unexpected relief. John Forsythe never became a great star, maybe he was to intense in his roles of exposed risk-takers to ever advance from that stage, but his films are always worth watching. The music, also as usual in Robert Wise's films, is exquisitely well suited and keeps up the drama. The message of the film is almost universal: this could happen to you and in any town, and the warning message is to always keep alert and never flinch at the truth.