John og Irene

This sombre drama qualifies to be a true film noir. The atmosphere is sinister and depressing, and the performances are resigned and tragic. The cinematography has a gloomy finish and the direction is to the point. The two leading actors form a team traveling round performing as a professional dancing couple who has difficulty making ends meet. Ebbe Rode is the dreamer and Bodil Kjer the down to earth realist. Bodil Kjer expands her image to encompass the disillusioned woman reflecting the hard life she has gone through. Ebbe Rodes disappointed optimism turn into violence with dramatic consequences. There is a poignant contrast between the claustrophobic hotel rooms and the empty big city streets. Considering the Saga Studio was scarce in administering proper budgets for their productions it is impressive how professional this film has come to look. It represents a sharp contrast to the mainly unambitious comedy outlet from that film studio.