Saturday, February 8, 2020

Part 6: A Movie Marathon Tribute to KIRK DOUGLAS

DETECTIVE STORY from PARAMOUNT PICTURES (1951). The film takes place solely in a police squad where all sorts of criminals are arrested. It's based on the popular theatre play and Kirk Douglas portrays detective James Mcleod. In his autobiography - Douglas claimed that he directed the play in California before the film shooting began. He also thought his performance would bring him an Oscar nomination - which it didn't.  

The 1951 censors did not permit the word "abortion" in the movie. The script was changed to "baby farming." The censors also didn't permit the shooting of a police detective. Director William Wyler fought for the gun shooting to remain in the movie. 

A baby-farmer (abortionist) is beaten by detective McLeod who claims police brutality. Mcleod has been chasing this baby killer and wants him in prison. The situation turns drastically when McLeod's wife knew this baby farmer several years ago. This film is considered "Film Noir", but the theatre play shines through clearly. 

Click photos below for all things Kirk Douglas.
(Movie poster 1951).

(1951 lobby card. Kirk Douglas and William Bendix in front).

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