The Girl in Black Stockings

The Girl in Black Stockings is a classic film-noir mystery thriller from 1957, starring Lex Barker, Anne Bancroft, and Mamie Van Doren. The movie is directed by Howard W. Koch and written by Richard Landau.

Set in a small mountain town in Idaho, the story revolves around a murder investigation that shakes the town to its core. The film opens with a beautiful woman, Candy Johnson (played by Mamie Van Doren), arriving in town to work as a nightclub singer. Before long, the body of a young woman is found in a nearby river, with a black stocking wrapped around her neck. As Sheriff Jess Holmes (played by Lex Barker) and his deputy, "Big Dave" (played by Brad Dexter), begin their investigation, they find that many of the town's residents have secrets to hide.

Anne Bancroft plays Laura Mead, a wealthy socialite who owns a nearby ranch and takes an immediate interest in the murder case. Through her connections and wealth, Laura is able to gather information and help Holmes and Big Dave with their investigation.

As the investigation progresses, suspects begin to emerge, including Candy Johnson, who has a troubled past, and the town's hotel owner, who has a history of domestic abuse. The town's doctor, a former alcoholic, also becomes a person of interest as his past is revealed.

The film is filled with suspense and mystery as the investigation leads to unexpected twists and turns. The stunning black and white cinematography adds to the atmosphere of the film, creating a haunting and foreboding mood.

The Girl in Black Stockings is a classic example of the film-noir genre, with its dark themes, complex characters, and moody atmosphere. The performances by the lead actors are strong, particularly Anne Bancroft, who brings a sense of class and elegance to her role.

Overall, The Girl in Black Stockings is a well-crafted and suspenseful mystery thriller that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. With its beautiful cinematography and strong performances, it remains a classic of the film-noir genre.