Breathe In

In the article entitled, “Scenic Route, Double Indemnity”, Michael D’Angelo discusses the sexual attraction between Walter Neff and Phyllis Dietrichson. He states that from the very first time these two met, there were symbols of availability. He also mentions the alluring conduct of Neff regarding Dietrichson’s anklet that he admired. D’Angelo says, “…and MacMurray not even bothering to conceal his lust, radiating a brash self-confidence that even contemporary mega-studs like Clooney and Depp would be hard-pressed to pull off.” He continues on by saying that “Double Indemnity” is flawless and even though this movie is not the earliest film noir it is still at the pinnacle of it’s genre.

Although I noticed the, in your face sexual attraction, this article sheds new light. The director (Wilder) of this movie stepped up to the plate and delivered a meal that fed the appetite of the viewers. Wilder walked on grounds that many of us would not dare to tread on, due to fear of offense. Even with the connection that Neff had with “the anklet”, who would have thought that a woman could make an anklet so enticing? By crossing her leg leaving her ankle exposed, she commanded Walter’s attention and while drawing him in. Neff was upfront about his feelings and did not care how he came off, perhaps that was the whole allusion of it all. During the era that this film came out, it was considered racy. Wilder played on the emotions. He aroused inner studs and femme fatale in us all. “Double Indemnity” created the film noir fragrance that tingled our sense of smell and awoke our appetite. Maybe that is the fragrance that Deitrichson wore, to draw Neff into her trap.