
Born to Kill
1947, Crime/Drama, 1h 32m
6 Reviews 500+ RatingsYou might also like
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Where to watch
Born to Kill Photos
Movie Info
Drifter Sam Wilde (Lawrence Tierney) murders a Reno, Nev., boardinghouse owner and her boyfriend in a fit of jealousy. Tenant Helen Brent (Claire Trevor) discovers the bodies, but instead of reporting the crime, she leaves for San Francisco as planned to return to her wealthy fiancé. On the same train, Sam flirts with Helen, then tracks her to her half-sister's house, where he continues to pursue her. Although Helen suspects Sam is a murderer, she inexplicably protects him from an investigator.
Cast & Crew
Lawrence Tierney
Sam Wild
Sam Wild
Claire Trevor
Helen Brent
Helen Brent
Walter Slezak
Matthew Albert Arnett
Matthew Albert Arnett
Phillip Terry
Fred Grover
Fred Grover
Audrey Long
Georgia Staples
Georgia Staples
Elisha Cook Jr.
Marty 'Mart' Waterman
Marty 'Mart' Waterman
Critic Reviews for Born to Kill
Audience Reviews for Born to Kill
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Jan 25, 2021This is about as dark a 1940s film noir as you'll find. It's plot suggests that all people have a sinister side. Robert Wise is the perfect director to explore this theme. And, If you know anything about the real life of the film's lead actor, Lawrence Tierney, you'll know that he's pretty much type-cast as the cocksure, criminal who casts a spell over the women he targets. Claire Trevor, known as the Queen of Noirs, is spellbinding herself.Aldo G Super Reviewer
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Sep 05, 2010Another good film noir, with a very interesting story of murder and romance. Good acting, good story, it's good.Aj V Super Reviewer
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Jan 21, 2009Finally, a noir film where the title actually makes sense! Classic psychopath meets girl love story. If you can find it on DVD be sure to check out the commentary from author and noir expert Eddie Muller. Muller's insight into the character and personality of Lawrence Tierney is priceless. It wasn't so long ago that I couldn't even tell you who Robert Wise was. Now I find myself, like a sponge, wanting to soak up every film he ever directed. If I come across one I dislike I'll let you know.Randy T Super Reviewer
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Jun 12, 2008Another example of great 40's Film Noir.Anthony V Super Reviewer
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