Film Noir, June 10

The FILM NOIR series at Coos Bay Public Library continues on Sunday, June 12th at 4:00. The classic 1947 film “Out of the Past” will be screened. This quintessential film noir made contract player Robert Mitchum set the standard for the genre for years to come. In his first starring role, Mitchum plays Jeff Bailey, the friendly but secretive proprietor of a mountain-village gas station. As Jeff’s worshipful deaf-mute attendant (Dick Moore) looks on in curious fascination, an unsavory character named Joe (Paul Valentine) pulls up to the station, obviously looking for the owner. Jeff is all too aware of Joe’s identity; he’s been dreading this moment for quite some time, knowing full well that it will mean the end of his semi-idyllic existence, not to mention his engagement to local girl Ann (Virginia Huston). In a lengthy flashback, the audience is apprised of the reasons behind Jeff’s discomfort – and thus begins a tale of treachery, betrayal and intrigue that extends into the present day and turns Jeff’s life upside down. Jane Greer masterfully plays her the role of the femme fatale with a combination of erotic fire and cool detachment. Her first appearance in the film, in silhouette as she enters a dark cantina from the bright sunlight, is one of the great entrances in film history. The Film Noir series continues on July 10th. Everyone is welcome at this free program sponsored by The Friends of Coos Bay Public Library. Please call 269-1101 or visit coosbaylibrary.org for further information about this program.