Cast
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Morgan Conway
as Dick Tracy
Anne Jeffreys
as Tess Trueheart / Blythe Belmonte
Lyle Latell
as Pat Patton
Rita Corday
as Mona Clyde, Sparkle's Secretary
Ian Keith
as Vitamin Flintheart
Dick Wessel
as Harry 'Cueball' Lake
Douglas Walton
as Percival Priceless, Antique Store Owner
Esther Howard
as Filthy Flora, Dripping Dagger Proprietor
Joseph Crehan
as Chief Brandon
Byron Foulger
as Simon Little, Sparkle's Diamond Cutter
Jimmy Crane
as Junior
Jimmy Clemons Jr.
as Butch
Milton Parsons
as Higby
Skelton Knaggs
as Rudolph
Trevor Bardette
as Abbott
Crew
Director
- Gordon Douglas
Producer
- Herman Schlom
Reviews
CinemaSerf
A slightly better than average outing for our eponymous detective (Morgan Conway) as he tries to track down the violent thug "Cueball" (Dick Wessel) who has already murdered once - with what appears to be a very thick shoelace - to acquire a valuable stash of diamonds. His brave girlfriend "Tess" (Anne Jeffreys) steps in as a broker trying lure the greedy criminal to them. It's not got any amount of suspense to it, but that doesn't matter - with Douglas Wilton as "Percival Priceless"; Ian Keith as the wonderfully named "Vitamin Flintheart" and the diamond dealer "Mr. Sparkle" - Harry Cheshire - all chipping into this pacy little hour, what can go wrong?
Jul 7, 2022
Thematic Analysis
Dick Tracy vs. Cueball represents a fascinating example of Crime/Thriller 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 Gordon Douglas 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 1946, 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 Dick Tracy vs. Cueball took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 62 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 88 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 50 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 1946, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Dick Tracy vs. Cueball shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Leatherface: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre III, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Dick Tracy vs. Cueball offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Were-Flutter: Quest for Truth and Children of the Corn III: Urban Harvest explore similar territory, Dick Tracy vs. Cueball stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 22, 1946
- Runtime: 1h 2m
Where to Watch
