Cast
View All
Tom Conway
as Tom Lawrence, aka The Falcon
Mona Maris
as Raquel
Martha Vickers
as Barbara Wade
Nestor Paiva
as Manuel Romero
Mary Currier
as Paula Dudley
Cecilia Callejo
as Dolores Ybarra
Emory Parnell
as James 'Lucky Diamond' Hughes [Script name: Winthrop Hughes]
Joseph Vitale
as Anton
Pedro de Cordoba
as Don Carlos Ybarra
Fernando Alvarado
as Pancho Romero
Bryant Washburn
as Humphrey Wade
Frank O'Connor
as Officer Hoffman (uncredited)
Frank Mayo
as Inspector O'Shea (uncredited)
George J. Lewis
as Detective Castro (uncredited)
Bob O'Connor
as Detective Batalides (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- William Berke
Producer
- Maurice Geraghty
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Falcon in Mexico represents a fascinating example of Crime/Mystery cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director William Berke brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1944, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Falcon in Mexico took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 70 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 113 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1116 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1944, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Falcon in Mexico shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Little Things, which focuses more on action than character development, The Falcon in Mexico subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Angel and Murder, My Sweet explore similar territory, The Falcon in Mexico stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 4, 1944
- Runtime: 1h 10m
