Today’s quick review: Murder, My Sweet. While helping recover a stolen necklace, private detective Philip Marlowe (Dick Powell) is ambushed and his client is killed. Soon after, Ann Grayle (Anne Shirley) approaches Marlowe looking for information. The necklace belonged to her young, philandering stepmother Helen (Claire Trevor). To solve the murder, Marlowe must determine who stole the necklace and why several dangerous strangers think he has it.
Murder, My Sweet is a classic noir adapted from a novel by Raymond Chandler. Murder, My Sweet is a clean-cut entry into the genre. It has a winding mystery of a plot that packs plenty of twists, and its colorful dialogue comes from the pen of a master. The whole package is tied together by a creditable performance from Dick Powell, whose Philip Marlowe is clever, practical, and thorough, yet far from infallible.
Murder, My Sweet’s sharp writing is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, its dynamic plot and excellent dialogue make it a rewarding watch. On the other hand, the film’s tangle of characters, lies, and hypotheses make it difficult to follow. Those willing to keep track of all the pieces will be treated to a noir with great fundamentals. Those looking for a simpler watch will soon lose interest.
Give Murder, My Sweet a shot if you’re a fan of the noir genre in its purest form. Murder, My Sweet is not as iconic as the best films of the genre, but its fundamentals carry it a long way. However, the film requires an investment of attention and effort, making it a poor choice for a casual watch. For a noir classic cast from the same mold, check out The Maltese Falcon.
7.6 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 to 7.5 for a sharp plot and worthy dialogue.