alan k. rode

When you think of film noir, you might think of “The Maltese Falcon,” starring Humphrey Bogart as the hard-boiled private detective Sam Spade. Or maybe “Sunset Boulevard,” starring Gloria Swanson as the aging, deranged silent-film star Norma Desmond. But there are also noir westerns. None is more celebrated than the 1948 "Blood on the Moon," starring Robert Mitchum. It’s a classic Western immersed in the film noir netherworld of double crosses, government corruption, shabby barrooms, gun-toting goons, and romantic betrayals. Documentarian, producer and film noir expert Alan K. Rode joins Russell and Alan to talk about the movie and his eponymous book, “Blood on the Moon.”

Author Alan K. Rode joins the podcast to discuss his new book BLOOD ON THE MOON, a detailed look at the making of the 1948 western.  Our discussion takes a deep dive into how this film is a  prime example of a noir western, which was a movement in westerns toward realism after World War II.  Alan provides background on star Robert Mitchum and why he was a perfect fit for this noir western style.  We also discuss the great director Robert Wise, cinematographer Nicolas Musuraca and the other members of the production team.  And then in turn we discuss stars Robert Preston, Barbara Bel Geddes, Phyllis Thaxter, Walter Brennan, and Charles McGraw.  We end with an update from George Feltenstein of the Warner Archive, as to why the film never received a DVD release, and the work that went into bringing it out on Blu-ray in early 2020.

Alan K. Rode's webpage

Purchase on Amazon:
Book - Blood on the Moon
Blood on the Moon Blu-ray

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This is part 2 of 2 with Warner Bros executive and film historian George Feltenstein and Alan K. Rode, author of “Michael Curtiz: A Life in Film.” 

In this episode, George and Alan broaden their discussion of the 1938 classic gangster film “Angels With Dirty Faces” with an entertaining look at the Warner Bros studio during the 1930’s and 40’s, including the Warner Club, the unique Warner blooper film reels, and the impact of World War II on the studio.  Then they discuss elements of Michael Curtiz’s legacy, including his relationship with actors, his personal life, and his films “Mildred Pierce,” “Yankee Doodle Dandy”, and “The Adventures of Robinhood.”

And finally, George reveals some of the Warner Archive plans for the film “The Adventures of Robinhood.”

Otaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers.  Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals.  www.otakumedia.tv

The Extras Facebook page
The Extras Twitter
Warner Archive & Warner Bros Catalog Group
Otaku Media produces podcasts, behind-the-scenes extras, and media that connect creatives with their fans and businesses with their consumers. Contact us today to see how we can work together to achieve your goals. www.otakumedia.tv