Last Updated on December 3, 2023 by ClassicsOldMovies

Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye is a 1950 classic American Film Noir movie directed by Gordon Douglas and produced by William Cagney. It stars James Cagney, Barbara Payton, Helena Carter, Ward Bond, Luther Adler, and Barton MacLane.

Watch Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye 1950 Full Movie

Ohio banned the film, citing it as a “sordid and sadistic portrayal of brutality, presenting an extreme depiction of criminal activities with explicit details of their execution.”

Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye Plot And Cast

Ralph Cotter, a seasoned criminal, orchestrates his escape from a prison work camp, leaving behind his partner, Carleton, whom he kills during the breakout. Upon his release, Cotter manipulates Carleton’s sister, Holiday, by threatening to expose her involvement in the prison break. Unaware of her brother’s fate, Holiday becomes entangled with Cotter, and a peculiar dynamic emerges, hinting at a sadomasochistic connection. In a particular scene, Cotter, provoked, uses a wet towel to whip Holiday, eliciting a passionate response from her.

Re-entering the world of crime, Cotter faces complications, including extortion from corrupt local law enforcement. As each plan unfolds, the situation worsens, and Cotter eventually turns the tables on the corrupt cops. The complexity intensifies when Holiday discovers the truth about her brother’s death and realizes Cotter is abandoning her for a wealthy heiress. Fueled by violent rage, she confronts the harsh reality of their relationship.

• James Cagney as Ralph Cotter
• Barbara Payton as Holiday Carleton
• Helena Carter as Margaret Dobson
• Ward Bond as Insp. Charles Weber
• Luther Adler as Keith ‘Cherokee’ Mandon
• Barton MacLane as Lt. John Reece
• Steve Brodie as Joe ‘Jinx’ Raynor
• Rhys Williams as Vic Mason
• Herbert Heyes as Ezra Dobson
• John Litel as Police Chief Tolgate
• William Frawley as Byers
• Gordon Richards as the Butler (uncredited)
• Neville Brand as Carleton, (Holiday’s Brother) (uncredited)

A Tangled Web of Betrayal and Deceit

At its core, “Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye” is a tale of betrayal and deceit. The plot revolves around Cotter’s escape from prison and his subsequent exploits as he weaves a web of alliances and betrayals. The film masterfully explores the moral ambiguity of its characters, leaving audiences questioning the line between right and wrong.

Femme Fatale Barbara Payton’s Compelling Performance

Barbara Payton, in the role of Holiday Carleton, adds a layer of complexity to the narrative as the femme fatale who becomes entangled with Cotter. Her performance is both alluring and haunting, contributing to the film’s noir atmosphere and showcasing the destructive power of desire.

Gritty Cinematography Shadows And Intrigue

Cinematographer J. Peverell Marley captures the essence of film noir with his moody and atmospheric shots. The use of shadows and low-key lighting adds a palpable sense of tension, creating a visually striking backdrop for the unfolding drama.

Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye A Film Noir Classic

In the annals of classic film noir, “Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye” (1950) stands out as a gritty and compelling masterpiece that has retained its allure over the decades. Directed by Gordon Douglas and based on Horace McCoy’s novel, this cinematic gem is a thrilling journey into the dark underbelly of crime, featuring a mesmerizing performance by James Cagney in the lead role.

“Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye” has left an indelible mark on the noir genre, influencing filmmakers for generations. Its themes of moral ambiguity, crime, and the consequences of one’s actions continue to resonate in contemporary cinema, proving the enduring power of a well-crafted noir narrative.

As we look back on the cinematic landscape of the 1950s, “Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye” stands tall as a noir classic that has stood the test of time. James Cagney’s riveting performance, coupled with the film’s intricate plot and atmospheric cinematography, cements its place in the annals of film history. For lovers of classic cinema and noir enthusiasts alike, “Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye” remains a must-watch, a testament to the enduring allure of tales shrouded in shadows and moral ambiguity.