“Detective Story” (1951) directed by William Wyler; starring Kirk Douglas, Eleanor Parker, William Bendix and introducing Lee Grant / Z-View

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Detective Story (1951)

Director:  William Wyler

Screenplay: Robert Wyler, Philip Yordan based on Detective Story (1949 play) by Sidney Kingsley

Stars: Kirk Douglas, Eleanor Parker, William Bendix, Cathy O’Donnell, George Macready, Horace McMahon, Gladys George, Lee Grant, Gerald Mohr, Frank Faylen, Michael Strong, Luis Van Rooten, Bert Freed, Warner Anderson, Grandon Rhodes  and Joseph Wiseman.

Tagline: The love story of a man whose wife was more woman than angel!

The Plot…

New York City Detective Jim McLeod has no tolerance for law-breakers.  McLeod’s dad was one and it literally drove McLeod’s mother insane.  McLeod’s tough on everyone.  Everyone except his beautiful wife, Mary.

One night, as other cops work their cases in the station house, McLeod has a breakthrough.  The other officers are dealing with shoplifters, burglars and even a potential psycho-rapist.  McLeod has been working a case involving Dr. Karl Schneider.  Schneider is a black market doctor who is responsible for at least one death.

Dr. Schneider’s lawyer warns McLeod to back off or else.  McLeod refuses.  He doesn’t know what the lawyer’s threats hold.  But he’s going to find out.

Thoughts (beware of spoilers)…

Detective Story was nominated for four 1952 Academy Awards…

  • Nominee for Best Writing, Screenplay – Philip Yordan, Robert Wyler
  • Nominee for Best Director – William Wyler
  • Nominee for Best Actress in a Supporting Role – Lee Grant
  • Nominee for Best Actress in a Leading Role – Eleanor Parker

In the original play, Dr. Schneider’s crimes were explicitly stated.  Due to Film Production Codes, in Detective Story they code only be hinted at.  Audiences could read between the lines.

Detective Story features Lee Grant’s film debut and she was nominated for an Academy Award for her performance!

Detective Story is one of the best play adaptations I’ve ever seen.  Lee Grant is superb. William Bendix is always awesome.  Kirk Douglas was the perfect choice to play the hard-nosed Detective McLeod.

Detective Story (1951) rates 5 of 5 stars.