Contact Man is an intriguing attempt to blend the worlds of fantasy and film noir, and if it isn't successful in its aims, it deserves credit for trying -- and also deserves to be better known than it is. Certainly, the basic story of Contact is one that works well -- a man selling his soul to the devil in order to achieve good and ultimately becoming as corrupt as those he despises. Unfortunately, the film opts for an ending which is too contrived and sits uncomfortably with the rest of the movie. The noir elements, especially the hardboiled dame, the evocative score and the wonderful Lionel Linden cinematography, work very well on their own, but at times seem to be at odds with the "devilish" part of Contact. Ultimately, the screenplay, despite its solid structure and careful attention to detail, leaves one feeling a bit unsatisfied, as if things didn't quite add up the way they were supposed to. John Farrow tries very hard to blend the two styles, and for the most part does a good job. And Contact boasts excellent performances from Ray Milland, operating in suavely evil mode, and Thomas Mitchell, etching a very touching and persuasive portrait of a man doomed by his own good intentions and ambition. There's also a delicious turn from Audrey Totter as the devil's handmaiden which is a must for true noir aficionados.
by Craig Butler
review
