10 Lesser Known Film Noirs You Need To See

6. Too Late For Tears (1949)

Final Analysis
MGM/UA

Money is often seen as the root of all evil and who better to teach us that lesson than Lizabeth Scott?

Jane Palmer (Scott) and her husband, Alan (Arthur Kennedy) are driving to a party when a bag full of money is hurled into their car. Briefly chased by another car, they safely return home before debating what to do with the money; Jane has always wanted money, but Alan wants to return it. However, when the other driver, Danny Fuller (Dan Duryea) comes calling, Jane begins the realise that the money may be more trouble than it is worth, but perhaps not enough for her to give it up.

Too Late for Tears could have been a very bulk-standard film, but it takes an otherwise simple plot and introduces numerous tense and twisting turns. Whilst it may not be as well-known as some of Lizabeth Scott's other forays into film noir, it proved that Scott could carry a similar film in the lead role. Indeed, Scott's Jane encourages both hate and empathy in equal measures - after all, who wouldn't be tempted by money?

Contributor

I started writing for WhatCulture in July 2020. I have always enjoyed reading and writing. I have contributed to several short story competitions and I have occasionally been fortunate enough to have my work published. During the COVID-19 lockdown, I also started reviewing films on my Facebook page. Numerous friends and contacts suggested that I should start my own website for reviewing films, but I wanted something a bit more diverse - and so here I am! My interests focus on film and television mainly, but I also occasionally produce articles that venture into other areas as well. In particular, I am a fan of the under appreciated sequel (of which there are many), but I also like the classics and the mainstream too.