Burglar Richard Basehart (as Roy Morgan) is attempting to rob a radio shop, when he is interrupted by off-duty policeman John McGuire (as Robert Rawlins), who just happens to be driving by, on his way home. When the suspicious officer asks to see some identification, Mr. Basehart shows him the barrel his gun. Soon, cop-killer Basehart is being perused by Scott Brady (as Marty Brennan) and the Los Angeles Police Department. Basehart proves himself to be a quite resourceful; notably; he uses the city's sewers as an escape route
With masterful use of light and shadows, from cinematographer John Alton, "He Walked by Night" is one of the most visually striking films of the 1940s. Basehart's psychotic star performance is also award-worthy; especially, after witnessing his character operate on himself, in close-up, to remove a bullet. The supporting cast is a treasure trove, among them: Roy Roberts as the determined police captain, Dorothy Adams as the loony lady on Brady's milk run, Whit Bissell as Basehart's bookish friend, Billy Mauch as the mugging head of a teen gang, and Jack Webb learning how to make "Dragnet" a west coast version of "The Naked City". And, that's not all; read the extended cast list on IMDb before watching, so you don't miss anyone!
********* He Walked by Night (1948) Alfred Werker, Anthony Mann ~ Richard Basehart, Scott Brady, Roy Roberts
With masterful use of light and shadows, from cinematographer John Alton, "He Walked by Night" is one of the most visually striking films of the 1940s. Basehart's psychotic star performance is also award-worthy; especially, after witnessing his character operate on himself, in close-up, to remove a bullet. The supporting cast is a treasure trove, among them: Roy Roberts as the determined police captain, Dorothy Adams as the loony lady on Brady's milk run, Whit Bissell as Basehart's bookish friend, Billy Mauch as the mugging head of a teen gang, and Jack Webb learning how to make "Dragnet" a west coast version of "The Naked City". And, that's not all; read the extended cast list on IMDb before watching, so you don't miss anyone!
********* He Walked by Night (1948) Alfred Werker, Anthony Mann ~ Richard Basehart, Scott Brady, Roy Roberts