Thelma Ritter
Her Best Film Noir Role
Thelma Ritter was born in Brooklyn and trained in theater. She was nominated for six Oscars in her career, which was most prolific in the 50's and early 60's. Though she really only had one major role in a film noir, she's still worth mentioning here because it's such a noteworthy performance:Pickup On South Street (1953)
She plays an unforgettable character named Moe, an old woman just one step from living on the streets, who makes ends meet by selling ties...or information. She sells out her friend Skip McCoy (
Richard Widmark
), yet draws the line at selling info to the Commies. Skip's loyalty to her is touching, as he tries to avenge her murder, despite what she did, because basically they came from the same side of the tracks. Ritter's portrayal as a tough minded yet frail woman with a big heart and loose morals but strong ideals manages to be both fascinating and authentic.
Get "Pickup on South Street" On DVD  
Buy at AllPosters.com
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