Niagra (1953): Film Noir UK

Set against the beautiful and dramatic surroundings of Niagara, Henry Hathaway’s very sunny, but very dark, film noir Niagara (1953) tells the story of happy newlyweds Ray and Polly Cutler (Max Showalter and Jean Peters) and their encounter with ill-suited couple Rose and George Loomis (Marilyn Monroe and Joseph Cotton).  

The newlywed’s honeymoon takes a turn for the worse when Ray and Polly witness Rose kissing her young lover Patrick (Richard Allen) and overhear them plot to kill her husband, with a plan to make it look like suicide. A manipulative tale ensues with lies, deceit, revenge and even murder shadows every element of the beautiful Niagara Falls.  

The film not only continued to establish the star persona of Marilyn Monroe (playing here in an uncharacteristic femme fatale) but the film marked a key turning point in her career as well. It was her first Technicolor film; an important element for Monroe due to the fact that her next two projects, both for 20th Century Fox and both released in 1953, would be the even more successful Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and How to Marry a Millionaire. 

Infused with colourful and yet sinister cinematography by Joseph MacDonald as well as a brilliant performance by Joseph Cotton this very much underrated of film noirs is perfect for rediscovery and perfect to see on the big screen.  

This screening is part of a special Marilyn Monroe film noir double bill marking 60 years since Monroe’s death and produced by Film Noir UK, the first dedicated film organisation in the UK celebrating the ever-influential world of film noir. 

With thanks to 20th Century Fox and Park Circus.