Double Indemnity

Discover the captivating origins of the classic film "Double Indemnity" in this insightful work by Richard Schickel. Published by Bloomsbury Publishing PLC in 1992, this 72-page paperback delves into the intriguing world of 1930s crime fiction that inspired the film. Schickel meticulously explores the complex relationship between director Billy Wilder and his scriptwriter Raymond Chandler, revealing the creative tensions that shaped the screenplay. Additionally, the book highlights the casting of the hesitant Fred MacMurray and discusses the significant decision to omit the lavishly filmed final sequence of Neff's execution. This edition is a must-read for film enthusiasts and anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes stories of cinematic history.