What It's About:

Classic “B” thriller revolves around an ingenious premise inspired by an earlier German film: small-time accountant Frank Bigelow (O’Brien) is, in effect, being gradually done away with, as for reasons unknown someone has fed him a slow-acting poison. On discovering this, Frank takes on the nightmarish duty of investigating his own murder. Will he find the culprit in time, and learn the motive behind his own death?

Why I Love It:

The late Edmond O'Brien's steely, measured lead performance in this noir nail biter solidified his career as one of Hollywood's top character actors. Tight, gritty and suspenseful, “D.O.A” has built up a huge cult following over time, and no wonder. Expertly shot on location in San Francisco and Los Angeles by famed lensman Ernest Lazlo, “D.O.A” is very much alive with intrigue. (Note: avoid the remake!)