Noose (1948 film)

Trade papers called the film a "notable box office attraction" in British cinemas in 1948.^[5] As of 1 April 1950 the film earned net box office receipts in the UK of £498,800 and distributor's gross receipts of £119,229 of which £74,918 went to the producer.^[1]

The Monthly Film Bulletin wrote: "Based on the play of the same name, the film moves at a smart pace from start to finish. The characterisation is sure, there is much humour, and a large cast responds well to alert direction. Of individual performances, that of Nigel Patrick stands out with startling effect. Joseph Calleia is suitably ruthless as the Black Market chief, and Hay Petrie makes a brief but sinister appearance as a barber. Carole Landis is both clever and attractive as Linda and a delectable study in dead-pan technique comes from Carol Van Derman."^[6]

Kine Weekly wrote: "Played for laughs as well as thrills by a perfectly balanced cast, and dressed to kill, it makes every post a winning one in its race to a spectacular, if slightly facetious, 'crime does not pay' climax. The masses will eat it. Capital British 'thick ear.'"^[7]

Variety wrote: "Depending more on characterization than on dramatic values, pic is noted for the excellent types who portray the underworld thugs. Joseph Calleia as Sugiani; Nigel Patrick as the irrepressible Bar Gorman, and Hay Petrie as the murderer, help lend color to the production. The late Carole Landis is attractive as the newspaper woman who stumbles on a scoop and makes trouble for Sugiani."^[8][9]

In The Radio Times Guide to Films Dick Fiddy gave the film 3/5 stars, writing: "This is a sterling slice of British film noir, starring American sex symbol Carole Landis. As the fashion journalist who gets mixed up in the murky underworld of London's black market, Landis bravely goes up against spivs and wide-boy racketeers in this well-made little thriller. While blonde bombshell Landis provides the glamour, the best performance is by Nigel Patrick as the fast-talking, charismatic villain."^[10]

• Noose at IMDb
• Noose at the BFI's Screenonline