He Ran All the Way (1951) | Directed by John Berry

"He Ran All the Way" (1951) is a film noir directed by John Berry, featuring John Garfield in his final film role. The movie is known for its intense storytelling and psychological depth, making it a standout in the noir genre. It also stars Shelley Winters, and the screenplay is by Dalton Trumbo (credited as Guy Endore and Hugo Butler due to the blacklist) and co-written by Hugo Butler.

The film follows Nick Robey (John Garfield), a small-time crook who panics during a payroll heist and ends up shooting a police officer. Fleeing the scene, he takes cover by manipulating a young woman named Peg Dobbs (Shelley Winters) into taking him to her family's apartment. As the police manhunt tightens, Nick holds the Dobbs family hostage while forming a complex and fraught relationship with Peg, who becomes torn between fear and empathy. The film explores themes of desperation, trust, and betrayal, set against the backdrop of Nick's escalating paranoia and guilt.

"He Ran All the Way" received acclaim for its sharp, tight script and strong performances, particularly from John Garfield, who delivers a gripping portrayal of a man driven by fear and desperation. The film's claustrophobic setting enhances the tense, oppressive atmosphere, effectively highlighting the psychological torment of the characters. However, some critics noted that while the film is strong on atmosphere, it occasionally lapses into melodrama, particularly in the portrayal of the relationship dynamics under duress.

The film is a compelling piece of cinema that showcases the talents of its cast and crew under the cloud of the Hollywood blacklist. John Garfield's performance is particularly notable for its intensity and complexity; it's a poignant capstone to his career, as Garfield passed away shortly after the film's release. The direction by John Berry is adept, maintaining a relentless pace and a suffocating sense of doom that is characteristic of the finest film noirs. Despite some moments of melodrama, "He Ran All the Way" stands as a powerful exploration of crime, punishment, and human frailty.

Cast
John Garfield as Nick Robey
Shelley Winters as Peg Dobbs
Wallace Ford as Mr. Dobbs
Selena Royle as Mrs. Dobbs
Gladys George as Mrs. Robey
Norman Lloyd as Al Molin

Overall, "He Ran All the Way" is an intense, engaging film noir that benefits from its psychological depth and strong performances. Its exploration of themes such as paranoia, guilt, and the impact of one's actions makes it a memorable entry in the genre and a fitting final showcase for John Garfield's talent.