Where the Sidewalk Ends (1950)

Dana Andrews was one of the greatest actors in the history of Hollywood cinema. He proves it in this movie. He plays a troubled police detective with psychological problems that get him into deep trouble. This may seem contrived, but it isn't. The movie deals with police brutality not by sensationalizing it, but by dramatizing it from the perspective of the police officer who is beset by issues that drive his behavior. Dana Andrews gives what has to be one of the finest performances as the police detective who wants to avoid becoming what he despises, but fails. How that happens and why is what the movie is about. There are few plots more compelling than that of the out of control police officer who makes serious mistakes. He abuses his position of authority not for money but for more complicated and insidious reasons. To find out more, watch the movie.

Featuring a tough cop, Where the Sidewalk Ends starts like any usual homicide investigation film-noir. It also includes a crime-boss, a few clashes, an attractive female-lead, romance affair and a serious crime. But, the film transcended my expectations as it proceeded further. The best thing about the film is the character of its protagonist. Dana Andrews once again plays the hot tempered detective here but his character is much more complex than in Laura. The story brilliantly develops around this character and his actions. The romance affair is also portrayed nicely without interrupting the flow and all the supporting characters suits well. Gene Tierney was magnificent once again but sadly her scope is quite limited this time.The key feature of this film is the way it covers different shades of its lead character. Dana Andrews does his part brilliantly. Like any common man, his character has a few weaknesses which leads to a serious crime. The story is carefully handled and proper emphasis is given to regrets and decisions of its protagonist. This clearly stands out and we get much more from the film than what its premise promises. Climax is equally good giving it a solid finishing note. Another Compelling noir from Otto Preminger.

I'm in the minority but this is a turgid noir entry. Andrews is so deadpan he's boring. Dialogue is borderline comical. Tierney's role is thankless & wasted. Lightning & street scenes are good but they can't compensate for how pretentious this film becomes. Special nod to a very young Neville Brand.The script is so far-fetched it leaves you incredulous. Cops did not converse in this manner. Who did? Karl Malden does the best he can with crass material. Curio film to see Gary Merrill too. Who soon married Bette Davis after working with her in All About Eve.No spoiler alert here but simply a summary to say this is a very odd film. I'm a fan of noir but there are so many better options than WTSE. In fact, I couldn't wait for this film to end.

Filmed mostly at night in a gritty neighborhood of the big city, this movie exemplifies Film Noir style. Detective Mark Dixon is well acted by Dana Andrews who hides his emotions behind the unfeeling stoic's mask, yet clearly wants to feel something at almost any cost. The natural drama lent to black and white movies is heightened by the character interactions, storyline, and decent, if not spectacular, lighting and cinematography.I was perhaps most impressed by the opening credits showing the movie title in chalk written on a busy sidewalk. The camera tracks slowly along the sidewalk, shows the title, and pauses at the gutter filled with runoff and flotsam. This was a great bit of subtle foreshadowing that also provides the answer to the question the title begs.