The Woman in the Window (1944)

"The Woman in the Window" is a 1944 film noir directed by Fritz Lang, starring Edward G. Robinson, Joan Bennett, and Raymond Massey. The movie is based on J.H. Wallis's novel "Once Off Guard," and it embodies many classic elements of the film noir genre, such as moral ambiguity, psychological complexity, and a dark, moody visual style.

Plot Summary:

The story revolves around Richard Wanley (played by Edward G. Robinson), a middle-aged psychology professor who, while his wife and children are away on vacation, becomes intrigued by a portrait of a beautiful woman in a storefront window. By chance, he later meets the woman from the portrait, Alice Reed (played by Joan Bennett), and they end up spending the evening together. Their innocent encounter takes a dark turn when Alice's jealous lover unexpectedly arrives and attacks Wanley. In the ensuing struggle, Wanley kills the lover in self-defense.

Fearful of the scandal and potential ruin of his career, Wanley and Alice decide to dispose of the body and cover up the incident. However, the situation becomes increasingly complicated as an investigation led by Wanley's friend, District Attorney Frank Lalor (played by Raymond Massey), draws closer to the truth. Wanley becomes entangled in a web of deception and suspense, trying to outwit the police and a blackmailer who has discovered his secret.