Is The Flame Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Flame is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 97 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
The Flame Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1947, The Flame emerges as a significant entry in the Drama, Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of George McAllister, the black sheep of a wealthy family who has squandered his share of the family inheritance, lives in constant jealousy, hatred and resentment of his half-brother Barry, who has been supporting him. Unlike standard genre fare, The Flame attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and The Flame features a noteworthy lineup led by John Carroll . Supported by the likes of Vera Ralston and Robert Paige , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of The Flame (1947) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.7/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
The Flame Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: The Flame is a Drama, Crime film that explores complex human emotions and relationships through nuanced character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
The Flame Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: The Flame attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of The Flame reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
The Flame Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
The Flame incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, crime film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: The Flame adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch The Flame?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of The Flame
- John Carroll – George MacAllister
- Vera Ralston – Carlotta Duval
- Robert Paige – Barry MacAllister
- Broderick Crawford – Ernie Hicks
- Henry Travers – Dr. Mitchell
Top Highlights
John CarrollGeorge MacAllister
Vera RalstonCarlotta Duval
Robert PaigeBarry MacAllister
Broderick CrawfordErnie Hicks
Henry TraversDr. Mitchell
Blanche YurkaAunt Margaret
Constance DowlingHelen Anderson
Hattie McDanielCelia
Victor Sen YungChang
Harry CheshireThe Minister
Where to Watch The Flame Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoParents Guide & Age Rating
The Flame is rated NR. Parents should be aware that it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.7/10, and global collection metrics, The Flame stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1947 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Flame movie hit or flop?
The Flame has received mixed reviews with a 5.7/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is The Flame worth watching?
The Flame is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Drama, Crime movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch The Flame online?
The Flame may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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Critic Reviews for The Flame
This is told by way of the reading of a letter that explains the story of how "George" (John Carroll) has frittered away his family inheritance and is now dependent on his half-brother "Barry" (Robert Paige) - a situation which he bitterly resents. A solution to his predicament presents itself when he suggests that his girlfriend "Carlotta" (Vera Ralston) take up the position of nurse to the ailing "Barry". Their plan is quite simple, really. She befriends him, gets him to fall in love with her and then they marry. Once married, "Barry" will meet his end and she will be free to marry "George" and inherit the family fortune. It's not so much a flame this as a flicker. It's pretty obvious what's going to happen, and but for a few scenes with the scheming "Ernie" (Broderick Crawford) and Henry Travers as the well meaning "Dr. Mitchell" this story proves to not quite have the courage of it's convictions. It's all just a little too formulaic in the end. Blanche Yurka does her best impersonation of Queen Mary as his aunt "Blanche" - no fool, herself and Hattie McDaniel livens things up, sparingly, too - but sadly this all just goes the way of the damp squib after a promising start.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
