Some overlap in actors with the film Black Angel 1946; happy to see and hear Constance Dowling sing again. Her real voice? I am pleased the film had the ending for Mr and Mrs MacAllister it deserved.
Yes, all three films were made in a remarkably short period of time as well, albeit not by the same studio. Once again, it is referenced as uncredited, so I assume not, but I did discover that: The original version of the song “Love Me or Leave Me” was recorded by Ruth Etting on December 17, 1928. An aficionado of the music of this period might know, but at least we learnt something!
@@isabellamars Well done, you found the original version. I thought I would put ChatGTP to the test and this was the response: "In the 1947 film "The Flame," Constance Dowling did not sing with her own voice. The singing voice of the character played by Constance Dowling was dubbed by Martha Mears, a popular Hollywood playback singer known for dubbing the singing voices of various actresses in films during that era." A quick answer but no sense of satisfaction in its discovery.
@@marty4933 Good idea, it seems our assistants know more than we do! This is interesting to me, I will look into Martha Mears, the Star behind the Stars, thank you Marty. Be careful what you wish for !)
When Noir and Melodrama Meet and Mix, the Flame Flickers Brightly Although “The Flame” is premised upon a traditional noir theme, there are absorbing concomitant elements that rise to the surface which elevate the work onto a new level. I imagine that had its cast and crew comprised of more famous names, the picture may have transcended its “B” status and might have ranked among such classics as “Laura” and “Double Indemnity”. Be that as it may, this film resonates with quality all the way through and stands apart in its in its own right. There is, to be sure, a murder with a characteristically calculated build up which sets the scene amid the bustle of the classic noir setting, the big city at night. This opens the doorway to intrigue and ensuing suspense. A flashback segment follows almost immediately, recounting a tale of conspiracy, deceit and betrayal. As far-fetched as some may find it, I discern some distinctive elements of classical Greek tragedy: central conflict, an inherently kind, loving and unsuspecting victim, conspiracy, conscience and denouement to cite a few examples. There's a sprinkling of Confucianism as well. The infamous love triangle (as old as time immemorial itself) is a recurring theme in many a dramatic work and has been appropriated by many noirish scriptwriters. “The Flame” goes a step further. It is underpinned by a double-love triangle involving five role players, each driven by emotional and motivational impulses of varying intensities which are teased out through the painstaking and sensitive direction of John Auer and the sharp cinematography of Reggie Lanning. The cast itself does justice to a cleverly written script (perhaps not to the taste and intellectual proclivities of high-minded critics of the New York Times calibre). The film, nevertheless, adequately satisfies a layman like me, thank you very much!). The picture is graced by the presence of many well-known names, in addition to the five leading - underrated - players. In supporting roles there is the ever-dependable Henry Tavers (as amicable and affable as always), Hattie McDaniels, Victor Sen and, of course, Blanch Yurka (who will ever forget her as that fire-breathing dragon, Madame Defarge, in the 1935 blockbuster, “A Tale of Two Cities”). Here, as Aunt Margaret, she also smoulders, albeit with a degree of suppressed heat. Reflect, at the end of this humble but enjoyable offering, on the clever choice of title and the multiple nuances of meaning which it evokes. Thank you, Isabella. Always indebted to you.
Thank you, Charlie, an elaborate review for an elaborate movie. This film is quite a curiosity, a big-budget B-movie, I was struck by the opulence of the film, there is plenty for the eyes to feast upon. You are quite correct, it is like a Greek Tragedy, a twisted, winding storyline steeped in tragedy. I agree, that simple title plays out in all directions, once it starts... I am always amazed just how many of these hidden wonders there are to discover, and how much appreciation they still hold. Thank you for devoting so much time and thought to your reviews Charlie, I am happy for the attention they bring to these films, lest they be forgotten. Whilst poorly reviewed at the time, I am happy to know it was enjoyed, even by a layman, Goal!
@@isabellamars I suppose films like, "The Flame" didn't receive good reviews because of its time. That era was dominated by many high profile attractions featuring big-star names.
@@charliewest1221 Thinking about it more now, I realised that those critiques I add to the insights are all from the time the film was released. Even today many films perform, or are reviewed, poorly upon release, but gain success later, Mulholland Drive and Fight Club spring to mind.
