“Strange Impersonation” is a 1945 film noir directed by Anthony Mann. It’s a B-movie that falls under the suspense and crime genres, known for its compact runtime and low-budget production. Here’s a comprehensive and detailed review of “Strange Impersonation.”
The film revolves around the character of Nora Goodrich (played by Brenda Marshall), a successful scientist working on a groundbreaking medical research project. When her ambitious but unethical assistant Arline Cole (played by Hillary Brooke) plots to take credit for Nora’s work, a violent confrontation ensues, resulting in a catastrophic accident that disfigures Nora’s face.
To escape the consequences of her actions, Arline assumes Nora’s identity, using plastic surgery to look like her. The narrative follows Nora’s journey as she seeks justice and tries to expose Arline’s deception while coping with her new, altered appearance.
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Brenda Marshall delivers a solid performance as Nora, portraying the character’s emotional turmoil, determination, and vulnerability. Hillary Brooke effectively captures the cunning and manipulative nature of Arline. The supporting cast contributes adequately to the suspenseful atmosphere, though the film’s limited budget is evident in some performances.
“Strange Impersonation” incorporates classic film noir elements, such as moral ambiguity, femme fatale characters, and a sense of fatalism. The cinematography, directed by James S. Brown Jr., employs chiaroscuro lighting and shadowy visuals, enhancing the noir aesthetic. The film explores themes of identity, betrayal, and the consequences of unethical actions.
Given its B-movie status, “Strange Impersonation” has a brisk pace, with a runtime of around 68 minutes. The screenplay, written by Anne Wigton, is efficient in presenting the central conflict and maintaining tension throughout. However, the film’s brevity limits the depth of character development and the exploration of some thematic elements.
As a B-movie, “Strange Impersonation” operates within constraints of budget and resources. While the film effectively uses lighting and shadow to create a noir atmosphere, the sets are modest, and some scenes may feel stagey. The makeup effects, especially in portraying Nora’s disfigurement, reflect the limitations of the time.
The film includes several unexpected twists and turns, particularly in the latter half, that keep the audience engaged. The plot explores the psychological and emotional toll of identity theft, making it a precursor to later films that delve into similar themes.
“Strange Impersonation” reflects the societal attitudes and gender dynamics of its time. Nora’s character, as a successful female scientist, challenges traditional gender roles. The film provides a glimpse into post-World War II anxieties and the evolving role of women in the workforce.
While not as widely remembered as some major film noirs of the era, “Strange Impersonation” retains its place in the genre’s history. It’s appreciated by enthusiasts for its compact storytelling and noir aesthetics, showcasing Anthony Mann’s early directorial work before he gained prominence with his later films.
“Strange Impersonation” is a concise and engaging film that effectively incorporates film noir elements within the constraints of a B-movie. Despite its modest production values, the movie succeeds in delivering suspense, unexpected twists, and a noir atmosphere. It may not be a standout classic, but it’s a noteworthy entry in the film noir canon and offers a glimpse into the genre’s evolution in the mid-20th century.
