Scarlet Street

The film follows Christopher “Chris” Cross (Edward G. Robinson), a meek, middle-aged cashier and amateur painter trapped in an unhappy marriage. One night, he rescues a young woman, Kitty March (Joan Bennett), from an apparent assault by her boyfriend, Johnny Prince (Dan Duryea). Mistaking Chris for a wealthy artist, Kitty and Johnny decide to exploit his kindness and naivety for financial gain.

As Chris becomes infatuated with Kitty, he allows her to take credit for his paintings, believing it will help her succeed. Meanwhile, Johnny manipulates the situation from behind the scenes, pushing Kitty to keep deceiving Chris while profiting from his work. The scheme spirals into emotional cruelty and betrayal, as Chris grows increasingly desperate and unhinged.

Tension builds until the story takes a violent turn, leading to murder and a grim legal aftermath. In classic noir fashion, Scarlet Street explores themes of obsession, illusion, and moral downfall, ultimately delivering a bleak and ironic conclusion. Fritz Lang’s direction emphasizes shadowy visuals and psychological intensity, creating a haunting portrait of a man undone by his own desires and vulnerabilities.

NOTE: This season we are doing Staff’s Pick programming for film. Watch for selections from Paul Mahder, Jonathan Wind, and Erin Partridge.