Blast of Silence
Directed by Allen Baron
Written by Allen Baron and Waldo Salt
1961/USA
Magla Productions
First viewing/Netflix rental
[box] Narrator: You get a feeling this is how it was meant to be. Like you are Troiano’s fate. Like you’re God.[/box]
This unique indie film noir was right up my street.
The story is told through liberal use of a second-person narrator who describes the protagonist’s own thoughts, sensations, and past. It is Christmastime in New York City where hit man Frankie Bono (played by the director) has been hired to assassinate a syndicate boss. He spends lots of time wandering city streets killing time and tailing his target.
Frankie is a complete loner who was brought up in an orphanage. Contact with others represents his danger zone. His interaction with the hoodlum who arranges for his gun does not bode well. The contract really goes to hell in a hand basket when he meets a childhood friend and renews his acquaintance with the friend’s sister.
Baron made great use of what was clearly a limited budget. If nothing else, this would be a lovingly shot portrait of a New York City which is no more. In addition, the narration is gripping and tautly written, drawing you into the psyche of a ruthless but lonely criminal. The story is gritty and surprising. Warmly recommended.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6PbJbaDAyk
Trailer
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