Fifth of six programmes Dark Victory
1942: Hollywood like the rest of America is at war. As well as inspiring exploitation movies like Hitler's Children, the war years profoundly affect film-making.
In the penultimate episode of this award-winning series, RKO directors Edward Dmytryk and Richard Fleischer explain how changed attitudes create a new style, 'film noir'.
Contract player Robert Mitchum makes his first appearance - in drag - and copes with a drug bust. On screen, producer Val Lewton begins terrifying audiences with his Zombies and Cat
People, and in the studios the sinister House Un-American Activities Committee also stalks its prey. Edward Asner looks into the RKO archives, recalling a time of mounting paranoia and suspicion.
Itsintelligentblendofinsightand entertainment is irresistible
DAILY EXPRESS
Producers CHARLES CHABOT ROSEMARY WILTON (R)