The Scar (1948)

A taut and effective little film noir, The Scar is a lesser known gem that deserves a wider following. Scar is far from perfect, mind you. For one thing, the story is one of those which is built on coincidences, far too many and of too far fetched a sort to be even remotely plausible. This alone will be a major hurdle for some viewers, but there's also the problem of the central gimmick: that too few people realize that the scar which the protagonist inflicts upon himself is on the wrong side of the face. However, if one is willing to overlook these flaws, Scar has is very rewarding. Paul Henreid turns in a classic dual performance, playing both the murderer and his victim and making them both distinct and yet also giving them an indefinable similarity that goes beyond the obvious physical. It's a shrewd and commanding performance and it is a major asset. Also of benefit is Joan Bennett's fine portrayal of a woman who is simultaneously world weary and openly vulnerable to being fooled in pursuit of love. Although the film can't escape a rather low budget look, director Steve Sekely helms it with style and John Alton's compelling cinematography is forceful and evocative. The ending is also a beaut; it's one of those incredible coincidences mentioned earlier, but for those willing to accept it, it packs a punch. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide