The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse

The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse is a 1938 film directed by Anatole Litvak and starred Edward G. Robinson, Humphrey Bogart, and Claire Trevor. The movie is a thrilling crime drama that revolves around the character of a respected doctor, Dr. Clitterhouse, who also happens to be a skilled thief keen on studying the psychology of criminals.

The movie introduces the character of Dr. Clitterhouse, played by Edward G. Robinson, as a successful surgeon who is intrigued by the criminal mind. To satisfy his curiosity, he decides to study the psychology of robbers by robbing several wealthy people himself. However, it is only after he meets the notorious criminal Boss, played by Humphrey Bogart, that his true psychopathic tendencies are revealed.

Dr. Clitterhouse's fascination with the criminal underworld takes him to dangerous new levels. As he delves deeper into the world of crime, he befriends the gangster Boss and becomes an accomplice in his criminal activities. The thrill of the heist becomes an addiction for Clitterhouse, even after his thefts are discovered by the police.

As the movie progresses, the moral dilemma of his actions is brought to the forefront, and the audience is forced to question whether Clitterhouse is a doctor or a criminal. The tension is brought to a climax when Clitterhouse's closest ally, the sultry and seductive Girl, played by Claire Trevor, becomes the unexpected victim of their latest robbery.

The movie is a stylish thriller that defies the conventions of the crime genre. Its protagonist is a complex character who struggles with his identity, caught between his loyalty to his profession and his addiction to crime. This inner struggle combined with the tension between the three main characters creates a gripping and engaging movie experience.

Edward G. Robinson's performance as Dr. Clitterhouse is brilliant, as he manages to convincingly portray the character's duplicitous nature. Humphrey Bogart's portrayal of the gangster Boss is equally impressive, as he exudes an air of danger and notoriety. Claire Trevor's Margo Lane is the film's only true innocent, a character caught in the middle of the two men's sordid life of crime.

The film's direction, by renowned filmmaker Anatole Litvak, added to the movie's success. Litvak is known for his atmospheric and innovative direction, and this film is no exception. The use of camera angles and lighting helped build the tension and sense of unease in the movie.

The Amazing Dr. Clitterhouse is a must-see for fans of classic film noir. It is a dark and complex crime drama with themes that are still relevant today. The movie's exploration of the human psyche and the nature of addiction makes it an excellent character study. For fans of Edward G. Robinson and Humphrey Bogart, this movie is a must-see, as both actors deliver powerful performances that showcase their remarkable talents. It is a reminder of the Golden Age of Hollywood and a testament to the enduring legacy of classic cinema.