"Backlash" is clearly a B-movie. Its short running time (a little over an hour), absence of big-name stars and overall plot practically scream B! And, as far as B-movies go, it's okay...just okay.
John Moreland doesn't like his life nor his wife, though he's kept this very much to himself. So, when he sees an opportunity, he fakes his own death AND implicates his wife as his murderer! Naturally, the plan doesn't go off without a hitch, as the film was made during the era when crime certainly did NOT pay!
The story isn't bad but the film often resorts too much to talk...and the talkiness of the picture didn't help it. In addition, it features one of the worst and most over-used clichés in mystery films...the guy who calls up and says "I can't tell you over the phone...can you come over here right away?". You just KNOW that the guy'll be dead before anyone arrives to help him or hear his evidence! These are reasons why I think this is a purely average time-passer and not something with a bit more to offer.
John Moreland doesn't like his life nor his wife, though he's kept this very much to himself. So, when he sees an opportunity, he fakes his own death AND implicates his wife as his murderer! Naturally, the plan doesn't go off without a hitch, as the film was made during the era when crime certainly did NOT pay!
The story isn't bad but the film often resorts too much to talk...and the talkiness of the picture didn't help it. In addition, it features one of the worst and most over-used clichés in mystery films...the guy who calls up and says "I can't tell you over the phone...can you come over here right away?". You just KNOW that the guy'll be dead before anyone arrives to help him or hear his evidence! These are reasons why I think this is a purely average time-passer and not something with a bit more to offer.