nick s
Some nice artistic flourishes from the director. She handles the subject matter with a deft hand, as does the lead actress. A couple of flat patches and a bit of expositional rambling, but not enough to lose focus. Overall a great movie.
Rated 4/5 Stars •
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
03/05/24
Full Review
Chris J
MOVIE REVIEW
Outrage
Production Code Administration (Passed) –
Genre: Crime, Drama, Film-Noir
Year Released: 1950, 2023 Kino Lorber Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 15m
Director(s): Ida Lupino
Writer(s): Collier Young, Malvin Wald, Ida Lupino
Cast: Mala Powers, Tod Andrews, Robert Clarke, Jerry Paris, Roy Engel, Lillian Hamilton, Rita Lupino, Angela Clarks
Where To Watch: available now here www.kinolorber.com, or www.amazon.com
RAVING REVIEW: Prepare to embark on a cinematic adventure unlike any other, as Ida Lupino's OUTRAGE takes you on an extraordinary expedition into the seldom-explored realms of Hollywood storytelling. A powerful piece of cinema that promises to provoke thought and reshape your understanding of the film.
The tale unfolds around Anne Walton, brilliantly portrayed by Mala Powers, whose life unravels after an appalling assault by a stranger. Unlike other films that might focus on the sensationalism of the crime, OUTRAGE plunges into the raw emotional journey that follows. Anne's torment is depicted with such gritty honesty that it strikes an unsettling yet profoundly enlightening chord.
What sets OUTRAGE apart from other films of its time is the subject matter and how it's handled. Lupino's direction crafts Anne as a character of resilience, not just a helpless victim, as we witness her transformation, struggle to heal, and pursuit of individuality. This story isn't a mere plotline; it's an insightful study of human resilience and a universal recovery journey.
Lupino's directorial prowess extends beyond the plot, giving us a visual experience that adds layers of complexity to the story. She transforms OUTRAGE into a visually stunning piece using creative camera angles, atmospheric noir styling, and meticulous attention to detail. It's a film that matches the depth of dialogue with the visuals on screen.
The supporting cast, including Anne's fiancé Jim Owens (Robert Clarke) and the pastor Paul Ferguson (Tod Andrews), deserve mention for their powerful performances. Their multifaceted performances paint a realistic portrayal of the confusion and sympathy surrounding trauma, adding authenticity to the plot. The choice of lesser-known actors of the time only heightens the film's credibility, making it more relatable to the everyday viewer.
Any imperfections aside, OUTRAGE's place in cinematic history is sealed. Recognized by the Library of Congress in 2020, its significance endures. One of the rare gems directed by a woman in a male-dominated industry, Lupino's bold creativity has left footprints for future filmmakers.
Despite a rocky financial performance, with a budget of $250,000 that put Lupino's independent studio, The Filmmakers, to the test, OUTRAGE's artistic triumph remains undimmed. Sometimes, the path less traveled brings unexpected challenges, but the destination makes it all worth the journey.
OUTRAGE is a film for everyone, not just cinema buffs. It's a bold exploration of themes that echo across generations, an artistic endeavor transcending time and trends. Its imperfections are overshadowed by its powerful narrative, exceptional performances, and innovative direction.
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As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.
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Rated 4/5 Stars •
Rated 4 out of 5 stars
08/08/23
Full Review
Matthew D
Shockingly forward thinking and empathetic towards victims of sexual assault.
Legendary lady director Ida Lupino's film noir drama Outrage (1950) feels bold for its era and still distinctly feminist. Lupino lets audiences understand how helpless and frightened a woman can feel when around men, especially when creepy guys will just not take no for an answer. I really cannot understate how progressive and sensitive Outrage still comes across. I do wish the ending had a more resolute and understanding conclusion rather than sending Ann home, but I guess that was the best anyone could think to finish Outrage on a slightly positive note.
Writers Ida Lupino, Malvin Wald, and Collier Young write with a real understanding of the justified fears of sinister men's advances. Outrage feels especially critical of the so called nice guys that pretend at being genuine only to get close to unsuspecting girls. Mala Powers is phenomenal as the sympathetic heroine Ann Walton. Her terrified faces and eyes are heartbreaking. I really felt for her.
Editor Harvey Manger keeps Outrage moving briskly with a tight 75 minute run-time that doesn't drag. All the cuts between mens' faces that Mala sees with fear are impressively spliced together. Even the slightest hand touch feels threatening. Cinematographer Archie Stout zooms into chilling close-up shots to show how each unwanted touch from a man is disgusting and frightening for a woman.
Composer Paul Sawtell's sweeping orchestral film score is wonderful. It feels tense and suspenseful even in the brief encounters with men that scare Ann. Sound designers Clem Portman and John L. Cass makes men's catcalls and whistles chilling with subtle echos. Makeup artist Bill Phillips does really pretty facial makeup on Mala Powers. Hairstyling from Josephine Sweeney is really neat as she can do prim and proper or disheveled for Mala's hair depending on her mental status.
In short, Outrage is a killer film noir picture from the masterful director Ida Lupino. It is her distinctly empathetic direction that lets Mala Powers shine as a sympathetic girl, now afraid of men.
Rated 5/5 Stars •
Rated 5 out of 5 stars
05/14/23
Full Review
s r
A bit too melodramatic for me on such a tricky topic to handle. Saw it on TCM.
Rated 1.5/5 Stars •
Rated 1.5 out of 5 stars
03/31/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Technically the film is not something really exceptional but it tackles the subject of rape in an incredible way, especially for the time it was realeased.
Rated 3/5 Stars •
Rated 3 out of 5 stars
01/22/23
Full Review
Audience Member
Very disingenuous; there is no redemption for these people.
Rated 1.5/5 Stars •
Rated 1.5 out of 5 stars
02/07/23
Full Review
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