House of Strangers

I’ve always had a soft spot for Edward G. Robinson, and I’ve seen a lot of his films (especially his noirs directed by Fritz Lang — The Woman in the Window and Scarlet Street are favorites). But his role as Gino Monetti in House of Strangers might just be his best. Even though Richard Conte shines as Max Monetti, Robinson steals every scene he’s in, especially during his "new vs. old world" speech. Robinson’s acting is always top-notch, effortlessly portraying everything from fragile souls to absolute villains, but Gino Monetti has a unique charm that sets him apart. Of course, it would be a crime not to mention the stunning Susan Hayward as Irene. She’s far from just a pretty face; she’s a pivotal character who drives the story forward. And let's not forget the brilliant cinematography by Milton Krasner, who masterfully builds the film's atmosphere — just take the long shot on the staircase at the beginning as an example. Joseph L. Mankiewicz was undoubtedly one of the best filmmakers of his time, and House of Strangers is a gem that definitely deserves its place among his greatest works. (08/21/2024)

When things don't work as they should in a family, the consequences can be really unpleasant for everyone involved. Max returns from prison and it's clear he's out for revenge against his brothers. His father is not a very nice man, and he's also not on his best behavior either. You wait quite anxiously to see how it all turns out. (06/29/2017)