The Window (1949)

It's a version of "The Boy Who Cried Wolf." Tenement kid Tommy has a habit of making things sound more interesting than they are; everyone knows to take his tales with a grain of salt. His parents are weary of his stories but get especially exasperated when they almost lose their apartment due to one of his fabrications. When he witnesses a murder, the only ones who believe him are the killers themselves.

My younger son regularly declines invitations to watch movies with the family, so I was surprised when he said "that sounds kinda good" when I asked him if he was interested in joining me for this one. It was a perfect introduction to noir for a boy who regularly shuns films, especially older ones. It's tight and accessible and the moody feel is perfect. The look of the film -- especially the cramped apartment -- is wonderful and Bobby Driscoll won a juvenile Oscar in 1950 due in part to his portrayal here.

Catch this one if you get the chance.

B+