mlraymond Review of The Lodger

The Lodger (1944)

In Victorian London, an older couple rent a room to a secretive stranger who just might be Jack the Ripper

[10/10 · 15 October 2006]

I can think of no greater tribute to this superb film than to mention that the first time I saw it, I was genuinely surprised after the final title to see an on screen appeal to buy war bonds "in this theater". The foggy, gas-lit atmosphere of Victorian London had been so convincingly recreated that it was startling to be reminded that it was an American film made at the height of the Second World War. A clever screenplay based on the Belloc Lowndes' novel alternates between suspenseful scenes and moody interludes that reveal much about the characters. The acting is excellent, down to the smallest roles, and the look of the film feels just right, between art direction and cinematography. The ominous score by Hugo Friedhofer adds much to the grim atmosphere. But it is Laird Cregar who dominates the film from his first appearance. His melancholy , soft spoken Mr. Slade ranges from a low key, shy manner to a sudden mania ,with total believability. The most fascinating aspect of the film is the surprisingly strong sexual undercurrents in the scenes between Cregar and Merle Oberon. Though restrained by today's standards, the lodger's growing love/hate obsession with the beautiful actress is quite clear. This film is hard to find, but may yet be released on home video. It's well worth the trouble of getting to see it.