Flaxy Martin (1949) | Directed by Richard L. Bare

Flaxy Martin is a taut film noir crime drama about a crooked lawyer entangled in a deadly web of deceit, manipulation, and betrayal after falling for a femme fatale. The story follows Walter Colby, a defense attorney for a crime syndicate, who becomes disillusioned with his corrupt lifestyle. However, his attempt to break free is complicated when his lover, Flaxy Martin, frames him for a murder he didn’t commit. As he escapes custody and tries to clear his name, Colby uncovers just how deep Flaxy's treachery goes.

Genre: Film Noir / Crime / Drama

Director: Richard L. Bare

Richard L. Bare was an American film and television director known for his efficient and stylish work, particularly in the B-movie circuit and on television. He began his career in short subjects and gained recognition for directing the "Joe McDoakes" comedy shorts. In later years, he became widely known for directing numerous episodes of the popular TV series "Green Acres." "Flaxy Martin" stands as one of his few forays into the darker, hard-boiled realm of noir cinema.

Star Cast:

* Virginia Mayo as Flaxy Martin
* Zachary Scott as Walter Colby
* Dorothy Malone as Nora Carson
* Douglas Kennedy as Sam Malko
* Helen Westcott as Peggy Farrar
* Robert Keith as Inspector Sutherland

While not a major box office hit, Flaxy Martin was generally well received by fans of film noir. Critics praised the tight pacing and suspenseful plot, as well as Virginia Mayo’s cold and calculated portrayal of the title character. Zachary Scott’s performance as a morally conflicted antihero also drew favorable notice. Over time, the film has gained cult status among noir enthusiasts for its atmospheric direction and classic themes of double-crosses and doomed romance.

Fun Facts:

* Virginia Mayo, often cast as wholesome heroines or glamorous women, took a darker turn with the role of Flaxy, showcasing her range as an actress.
* This was one of several noir films made by Warner Bros. in the late 1940s that capitalized on post-war cynicism and urban anxiety.
* The screenplay was written by David Lang, who would go on to write for many crime TV shows in the 1950s and 60s.
* Richard L. Bare later recalled this film as a significant step in his transition from short films to full-length features.

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