CS #412. Smooth As Silk (1946)

CS #412. Smooth As Silk (1946)

is a fast-paced American film noir crime drama produced by Universal Pictures.
Directed by Charles Barton, the film is a remake of the 1935 movie A Notorious Gentleman. It features a plot driven by ambition, betrayal, and murder within the theatrical and legal worlds of New York.
Plot Overview
The story begins with attorney Mark Fenton (Kent Taylor) successfully defending a wealthy playboy, Don Elliott, against a manslaughter charge. Fenton expects Don’s uncle, Broadway producer Stephen Elliott, to cast his fiancée, aspiring actress Paula Marlowe (Virginia Grey), as the lead in a new play as a reward. When Stephen refuses, the ruthlessly ambitious Paula takes matters into her own hands, manipulating both Don and Stephen to secure the role. Her betrayal leads to a jealous Fenton committing murder and attempting to frame her for the crime.
Key Cast and Crew
Kent Taylor as Mark Fenton, the slick and vengeful attorney.
Virginia Grey as Paula Marlowe, the calculating femme fatale.
Jane Adams as Susan Marlowe, Paula’s younger sister, who provides a moral contrast to the lead.
Milburn Stone as John Kimble, the District Attorney.
John Litel as Stephen Elliott, the doomed theater producer.
Danny Morton as Don Elliott, the alcoholic playboy.
Theresa Harris as Louise, Paula’s maid and confidante.