Roadblock (1951)

I absolutely loved this film. From its first great plot twist -- inside a mausoleum in the dead of night, no less -- to its last heart-rending shot, this movie will thrill you. Of course, how could you ever go wrong with steel-jawed and granite-voiced film noir icon Charles McGraw? (When you have the chance, check out his gripping performances in The Narrow Margin and The Killers -- if you haven't already seen them.) In this film, he's a tough-as-nails insurance investigator who falls hard -- very hard -- for gorgeous gal Joan Dixon. Her lovely wiles, and spirited personality, ultimately cause McGraw to go off the rails. His privileged position in the insurance hierarchy makes him the perfect planner for a once-in-a-century railroad heist. As you might expect, though, things are only going to get rougher, and more ruthless, from there. But part of what makes this film so brilliant is that [spoiler alert], quite unexpectedly, Joan Dixon has a change of heart -- and gradually transforms herself from potential femme fatale to genuinely loving woman-of-conscience. As time goes on, she clearly cares deeply for McGraw's character, and, in fact, becomes his steadfast and devoted wife. This makes the brutal and frantic ending that much more poignant, and affecting. But we can't forget all the action and fiery plot elements along the way. There are twists and turns and explosive climaxes that will surely glue you to your seat. And these twists are played with such deft sureness that they don't feel contrived, and they aren't jarring to the narrative flow. Plus, along with the stylish plot and breakneck pacing, you have a solid cast who play their roles very convincingly and with remarkable zest. All in all, this brief 73 minute runaway-train of a movie is packed with entertainment, and noir panache. I would gladly recommend this film not just to noir buffs, but to anyone looking for a heartfelt and satisfying cinematic thrill ride.

The dvd was in good condition. Played find. Sound was good. There are no extras with this dvd. Only negative was it took several weeks to get here. But I wasn't in a hurry and it was worth it. Movie was good!

Neither Charles McGraw nor Joan Dixon were A-list screen actors, so we start with a negative. Then you add that neither of them are particularly attractive and you ask yourself, "Why did I purchase this?" Or "Why am I looking at this?" The story was trite and time-worn as well, so it's an overall loser.

- been searching for this old movie for 20 years...happy to have it.

HOT

Great movieGreat conditionGreat bargain

Above average "B" film noir

I love FIlm Noir and have seen many films of this genre...but this one is a stinker. I bought it because I love Charles McGraw, but I would save your money and time and find something else. A definite C or D picture.

Cine negro clásico. Buena película de la serie B. Lástima no poder doblarla en español, aunque entiendo inglés perfectamente.Manuel.

A decent little B picture that rattles along and doesnt waste any of its 73 mins.A good print as well.