Another splendid collaboration between director Robert Gavaldón and writer José Revueltas, in this case adapted from a story by Luis Spota which offers Arturo de Córdova the kind of role at which he excels, that of a morally ambivalent character in the grip of an erotic obssession. The object of his desire is delicious but deadly Leticia Palma as one of Film Noir's most notable femmes fatales. This is indisputably her meatiest role and who knows how her career might have developed had she not become embroiled in a dispute with Jorge Negrete which caused her to be blacklisted. Mention must be made of the touching performance by Carmen Montejo whose character's sad demise provides the film's final, devastating twist.
The film's 'noir' credentials are underlined by the chiaroscuros and canted angles of cinematographer Alex Phillips, the dramatic score by Raúl Lavista and the astonishing Production Design by Francisco Chillet.
Perfectionist Gavaldón, affectionately nicknamed 'The Ogre', was demanding of his actors but enabled them to shine in vivid roles in commercial hits. This one is certainly no exception, winning eight of eleven Ariel nominations including one for its leading man.
A landmark 'noir' which continues to captivate over seventy years on and provides a perfect introduction to the work of one of cinema's stylists.
