Illegal

Illegal is a 1955 American film noir, a classic crime drama film directed by Lewis Allen and produced by Frank P. Rosenberg. The film is known for its gripping storyline, intense performances, and dramatic visuals that bring the film to life. The movie stars Edward G. Robinson, best known for his roles in many classic gangster movies. In this film, Robinson breaks away from his usual typecast, mastering the role of a principled district attorney who goes rogue. His performance is complimented by the supporting cast of Nina Foch and Hugh Marlowe.

Edward G. Robinson portrays Victor Scott, an esteemed yet overzealous District Attorney driven by his strong sense of justice. Regardless of the costs, Scott is relentless in his quest to uphold the law, and his distinguishable record makes him esteemed in the eyes of the city. However, a fatal mistake while in his role as a prosecutor forces him to reevaluate his principles and puts him at odds with the very system he has spent his career defending.

After winning a case and getting a murder conviction, he discovers that the defendant, who has since been executed, was in fact innocent. The realization of his grave mistake throws him into a whirlwind of guilt and regret, causing him to quit his job in a heart-rending downturn. This twist triggers a dramatic shift in his character and his life as he spirals down an unforeseen path.

Following his resignation as a district attorney, Scott turns to the other side of the law and becomes a defense attorney for the mob, specifically, underworld figure Frank Garland (Albert Dekker). Recontextualizing his expertise in law, Scott ends up helping the very criminals he had once dedicated his life to putting behind bars. This shift allows for an exploration of moral dichotomy, infusing the narrative with deeper layers of complexity and posing a compelling question about the nature of law and legality.

Robinson’s transformation from a district attorney to defense lawyer showcases his dynamic acting prowess, as he skillfully portrays the complex character of Victor Scott. His performance is enhanced by the efforts of Nina Foch, who plays Ellen Miles, a loyal secretary to Victor Scott whose devotion to her boss hints at deeper feelings. Her nuanced portrayal adds depth to her character and provides a captivating emotional subplot.

Hugh Marlowe plays the role of Ray Borden, Scott’s former assistant who takes over his role as District Attorney after Scott's departure. Marlowe’s character adds another layer of rivalry and complexity to the plot as he finds himself on the opposite side of the courtroom to his former mentor.

As the story unfolds, audiences are carried along through an elaborate web of intrigue and deception. The film explores the dynamics of law and crime, morality, and corruption, and the blurry lines that sometimes exist between them. Illegal has a rich plot that carries heavy themes, making it much more than a simple crime drama. The film invites its audience to question the concepts of guilt and innocence, justice, and corruption and how these elements often interplay in the legal system.

The aesthetics of the film are quintessential to the noir genre, with dramatic shadows, off-kilter camera angles and sharp contrasts between light and dark present throughout. The director, Lewis Allen, showcases finesse in creating an atmospheric underworld setting that perfectly complements the story.

Illegal combines the elements of a courtroom drama with a crime noir sensibility and a psychological exploration of its characters. It keeps audiences in their seats from the word 'go,' courtesy of its sophisticated narrative, multifaceted characters, and substantial themes. The film packs a powerful punch of action and emotion alike, delivering a cinematic experience that inspires suspense, intrigue, and critical thought.