Born to Kill (1947): Cast, Plot & Where to Watch

Name: Born to Kill
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Released: 1947
Duration: 92 min
Cast: Claire Trevor, Lawrence Tierney, Walter Slezak, Phillip Terry, Audrey Long

What Born to Kill Is About

Born to Kill was Robert Wise's first film as a noir director, adapted from James Gunn's 1942 novel "Deadlier Than the Male" and produced by RKO. Its violence and moral bleakness reportedly got it almost immediately banned from theaters across America's heartland on release, and RKO moved to disown the film within days of its debut. Who it's for: anyone curious about Robert Wise's early, morally bleak film noir work and the censorship backlash of its era. Who it's not for: viewers wanting a softer, more redemptive crime drama, since this one offers no heroes and no moral comfort.

How did this film move you?

Trailer

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Born to Kill about?

Born to Kill was Robert Wise's first film as a noir director, adapted from James Gunn's 1942 novel "Deadlier Than the Male" and produced by RKO. Its violence and moral bleakness reportedly got it almost immediately banned from theaters across America's heartland on release, and RKO moved to disown the film within days of its debut.

Where can I watch Born to Kill?

Born to Kill is available to watch on digital platforms such as Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube. Current rent and buy options are listed in the "Where to Watch" section on this page.

How long is Born to Kill?

Born to Kill runs for 92 minutes (1h 32m).

When did Born to Kill come out?

Born to Kill was released in 1947.

Who directed Born to Kill?

Born to Kill was directed by Robert Wise.

Who stars in Born to Kill?

Born to Kill stars Claire Trevor, Lawrence Tierney, Walter Slezak, Phillip Terry.

What is Born to Kill's rating?

Born to Kill holds 7.2/10 on IMDb and 6.7/10 on TMDB. Its Pulse Score is 71 out of 100.