Phantom Lady (film)

Phantom Lady is a 1944 American film noir directed by Robert Siodmak and starring Franchot Tone, Ella Raines, and Alan Curtis. Based on the 1942 novel of the same name by Cornell Woolrich (under the pseudonym William Irish), the film tells the story of a man wrongly accused of murdering his wife and the desperate attempts of his secretary to find the mysterious woman who can prove his innocence.

The plot centers around Scott Henderson (Curtis), who argues with his wife and goes to a bar alone. He picks up a mysterious woman in a large, distinctive hat, and they attend a performance at a theater and then a jazz club. Scott is arrested for his wife's murder, but no one remembers seeing the "Phantom Lady" with him. His loyal secretary, Carol Richman (Raines), takes it upon herself to clear his name, risking her own life as she delves into the dark underbelly of New York City to locate the elusive woman.

Phantom Lady is notable for its atmospheric cinematography, directed by Elwood Bredell, which contributes significantly to its noir aesthetic. The film also features a memorable performance by Elisha Cook Jr. as Cliff, a jittery and volatile jazz drummer who holds a crucial clue to the Phantom Lady's identity.

The film is considered a classic example of film noir, showcasing themes of paranoia, obsession, and the pervasive sense of dread that characterizes the genre. Its exploration of urban alienation and the vulnerability of individuals in a corrupt and indifferent society are also hallmarks of film noir. While adaptations exist, the 1944 film is the most widely recognized version of the Phantom Lady story.