Cast
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Denzel Washington
as Easy Rawlins
Tom Sizemore
as DeWitt Albright
Jennifer Beals
as Daphne Monet
Don Cheadle
as Mouse Alexander
Maury Chaykin
as Matthew Terell
Terry Kinney
as Todd Carter
Mel Winkler
as Joppy
Albert Hall
as Degan Odell
Lisa Nicole Carson
as Coretta James
Jernard Burks
as Dupree Brouchard
David Fonteno
as Junior Fornay
John Roselius
as Mason
Beau Starr
as Miller
Steven Randazzo
as Benny Giacomo
Scott Lincoln
as Richard McGee
Crew
Director
- Carl Franklin
Producer
- Jesse Beaton
- Gary Goetzman
Reviews
John Chard
Everyone was peeing on my head and telling me it's raining.
Devil in a Blue Dress is written and directed by Carl Franklin, who adapts from the book written by Walter Mosley. It stars Denzel Washington, Tom Sizemore, Jennifer Beals, Don Cheadle and Maury Chaykin. Music is by Elmer Bernstein and cinematography by Tak Fujimoto.
Carl Franklin had already laid down a considerable neo-noir marker with his searing 1992 thriller One False Move, here he goes more traditional but garners equally impressive results. Plot has Washington as a WW2 veteran who has lost his job and desperately needs money to keep hold of his pride and joy - his house. Taking on a job offered by shifty DeWitt Albright (Sizemore), to find a missing woman, Rawlings quickly finds himself in up to his neck in murder and deception, he must turn ace detective to save his skin.
Set in late 1940s Los Angeles, what instantly stands out is the period detail. The clothes, the cars and the establishments frequented by Easy and company. With voice over narration also provided by Washington, in dry and sardonic tones, it's every inch a loving ode to the film noir movies released at the time the pic is set. There's plenty of neon signs about the place, some bad ass cops, good sex, brandy and sharp suits, smoking and coolness and of course a psychopath in the classic mould (Cheadle excellent).
But of course noir dressage is only that if you haven't got a good pot boiling plot, thankfully this has one. The story takes unexpected turns, always remaining interesting, the distinctive characterisations breathing heavy, managing to off set the run of the mill stereotypes in the supporting ranks. It can be argued that Beals as the titular femme fatale of the title is under written, but the character comes with an air of mystery that serves Franklin's atmosphere very well. Tech credits are high, something of a given with Bernstein and Fujimoto on the list, while Washington turns in another classy show of subtlety and believability.
Lovers of film noir should get much rewards from Devil in a Blue Dress. 7.5/10
Nov 20, 2015
Thematic Analysis
Devil in a Blue Dress represents a fascinating example of Thriller/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 Carl Franklin 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 1995, 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 Devil in a Blue Dress took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $27.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 102 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 15 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 414 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1995, when this film was released:
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Devil in a Blue Dress shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 2001: A Space Odyssey, which focuses more on action than character development, Devil in a Blue Dress offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like War of the Worlds and Memento explore similar territory, Devil in a Blue Dress 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: September 29, 1995
- Runtime: 1h 42m
- Budget: $27,000,000
- Revenue: $16,140,822
