East of Eden (1955) - 1/5

This film is a pointless look at a troubled young man with a fatalistic woe-is-me attitude. As far as the narrative is concerned there’s no real reason for his disaffected ennui but he mopes about for the duration, before coming to a conclusion without a resolution. Nothing about this movie stands out as worth watching on its own, and the story does not justify its own existence.

Closest comparison: It’s like The 400 Blows by way of Rebel Without a Cause.

Setting: Family Drama
Plot: Self-pity
Tone: Dour Drama

The Woman in the Window (1944) - 4/5

This film noir centerpiece is a fascinating address of human psyche and the question of morality in the face of an imperfect justice system. It has all the hallmarks of the noir genre, including a male lead that wanders just beyond the line of morality and a will-they-won’t-they femme fatale. It’s equal parts crime drama, tawdry mess, and frank morality play. This movie shines in its clever plot by letting the audience in on the characters’ dualities to ratchet up the tension, paying off initial setups like gangbusters. If you’re a fan of film noir, this is a must-watch.

Closest comparison: It’s like It’s A Wonderful Life by way of Little Caesar (1939).

Setting: Noir
Plot: Cover-up
Tone: Thriller