Odd Man Out

About Odd Man Out

"Odd Man Out" (1947) is a British noir film directed by Carol Reed and penned by F.L. Green and R.C. Sherriff. The film centers around Johnny McQueen, played by James Mason, the leader of an outlawed Irish organization. After a heist goes terribly wrong, the wounded Johnny finds himself on the run in the bleak and anonymous streets of Belfast, with both the authorities and his former associates on his tail.

Making/Production

The film is based on the novel of the same name by F.L. Green. It was Carol Reed's first film for Alexander Korda's London Films after a long association with producer Michael Balcon. The film was shot on location in Belfast and London, bringing a gritty realism to the on-screen events. Reed's direction and the atmospheric cinematography by Robert Krasker played a major role in shaping the film's distinct tone.

Actors

• James Mason as Johnny McQueen: Mason provides a captivating performance as the tortured, existentialist anti-hero at the centre of the plot.
• Robert Beatty as Dennis: A dedicated member of the organization, Beatty's portrayal adds depth to the film's exploration of loyalty and sacrifice.
• Kathleen Ryan as Kathleen Sullivan: As the woman who loves Johnny, Ryan delivers an emotionally stark and mesmerizing performance.

Trivia/Interesting Facts

• Director Carol Reed's decision to shoot scenes on location was quite innovative for the time and added significant depth and realism to the film.
• Today "Odd Man Out" is considered one of the greatest British films of all time.
• The plot of the film is thought to have inspired the television series "The Fugitive".

Quotes

• "All my life I've been looking for something. I think I've found it now. It's life I've found, Maureen. I want to live," - Johnny McQueen
• "He can't get away... he can't hide." - Kathleen Sullivan

Music

The film's haunting and moody score was composed by William Alwyn, who was known for his work in British cinema.

Soundtrack

• The theme of "Odd Man Out" – composed by William Alwyn.