What is The Asphalt Jungle?
The Asphalt Jungle is a 1950 American film noir directed by John Huston and based on the 1949 novel by W. R.
- Type
- Film
- Year
- 1950
- Status
- Released
- Runtime
- 113 minutes
- Release date
- May 12, 1950
- Studios
- Loew's Incorporated
- Genres
- Crime, Drama
- Updated
Trailer
Overview
The Asphalt Jungle is a 1950 American film noir directed by John Huston and based on the 1949 novel by W. R. Burnett. The story follows a recently paroled legendary burglar named Doc Riedenschneider who, with funding from a crooked lawyer named Alonzo Emmerich, gathers a small group of veteran criminals in the Midwest to execute a major jewel heist. Recognized as one of the oldest and most famous dramas detailing a precise jewel robbery and its consequences, the film holds cultural significance as a pioneer of the caper genre and features one of the earliest film roles for Marilyn Monroe alongside stars like Sterling Hayden, Louis Calhern, Jean Hagen, James Whitmore, Sam Jaffe, and John McIntire.
With a runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes, the film delivers a focused crime drama experience categorized under crime and drama genres. It maintains a deliberate pacing appropriate for classic studio-era cinema, exploring the intricate dynamics of its criminal ensemble and the fallout of their high-stakes operation without relying on modern cinematic tropes.
Should you watch it?
“A recently paroled legendary burglar gathers a small group of veteran criminals for a big jewel heist.”
- It is directed by John Huston.
- It features an ensemble cast including Sterling Hayden, Louis Calhern, Jean Hagen, James Whitmore, Sam Jaffe, John McIntire, and Marilyn Monroe.
- It is one of the oldest and most famous dramas depicting a precise jewel robbery and its consequences.
- Viewers seeking fast-paced modern action or contemporary visual effects may find the 1950 black-and-white presentation too slow or dated.
Watch it if you enjoy classic American film noir dramas about meticulous criminal planning and its aftermath.
The tone is dramatic and gritty, with a runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes, making it suitable for viewers interested in foundational crime cinema.
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Frequently asked questions
Where can I stream The Asphalt Jungle?
Streaming availability varies by region, but the film is generally accessible to rent or buy on digital platforms.
Is The Asphalt Jungle worth watching?
Yes, it is a critically acclaimed and famous American film noir directed by John Huston that defined the caper subgenre.
What is the binge duration or runtime of the film?
The film has a total runtime of 1 hour and 53 minutes.
Are there essential episodes to watch?
The Asphalt Jungle is a standalone feature-length film rather than a television series, though a subsequent 1961 series adaptation also exists.
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