DVD Corner

Conflict Blu-ray Review

“Conflict” is a film noir that deserves more attention. 

Based on Robert Siodmak and Alfred Neumann’s story “The Pentacle,” “Conflict’ is a 1945 film noir that is adapted for the screen by Arthur T. Horman and Dwight Taylor. The story revolves around a married couple (Kathryn and Richard) who are not so happily married. Richard is annoyed by Kathryn and is in love with her sister Evelyn. After getting into a car accident, Richard fakes being unable to walk. This is part of a larger devious plan to murder Kathryn in order to be with Evelyn. Richard ends up killing Kathryn and makes it look like an accident. He believes he got away with the murder cleanly until he begins to experience strange things such as items of his wife reappearing and seeing a woman that looks strikingly like Kathryn. Is his guilt eating at him causing him to crack up? Is Kathryn somehow alive? Does someone know the truth about what happened? Is this all an elaborate ruse of some sorts? All is revealed in the end. 

For years now Warner Archive has consistently been one of the best labels and it’s because they release little known gems like “Conflict” time and time again. This film noir isn’t a household name like “The Maltese Falcon” or what have you, but it’s an involving film noir nonetheless.

Perhaps the most curious part of “Conflict” is that it’s a rather deep psychological character study about a man (Richard) who is so consumed by his infatuation with another woman (Evelyn) that he murders his own wife to get to her. There are no guarantees this is even a possibility but he does it anyway. Through a series of circumstances, Richard begins to unravel. It’s partly due to his own experiences (no spoilers here) but it’s also due to his own guilty conscience. You really get an internal look at how the murderous Richard’s life begins to collapse to the point where he loses everything. This is made even more compelling by Humphrey Bogart’s absorbing and understated performance. It’s no secret that Bogart was one of the best big screen actors of all time and this deeply underrated performance is proof of why.

Director Curtis Bernhardt never helmed a renowned classic, but the skilled filmmaker shows off his talents here. Bernhardt enhances every scene with creative shots, moody lighting, and a distinct touch. This isn’t a case of a filmmaker just stepping into a job. He really brings something to the table here and creates some truly memorable imagery.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1:37:1 1080p. How does it look? This B&W gets a superb restoration courtesy of Warner Archive.

Audio Track: 2.0 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? This is an adequate 2.0 track but there are crackles and defects to be heard.

Extras:
* Theatrical trailer
* 2 cartoons titled “Trap Happy Porky” and “Life With Feathers” (both presented in HD).
* 1945 “Conflict” radio drama with Humphrey Bogart.
* 2 short films titled “Peeks At Hollywood” and “Are Animals Actors?” (also presented in HD).

November 3, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Conflict Blu-ray Review, Film Noir, Humphrey Bogart, Warner Archive