Reign of Terror, also known as The Black Book, is a 1949 film noir directed by Anthony Mann. The movie is set during the French Revolution and focuses on Charles D'Aubigny, played by Robert Cummings, a man who is tasked with infiltrating the Jacobin Party to overthrow Maximilian Robespierre, played by Richard Basehart.
As the story unfolds, Charles D'Aubigny, a former soldier, is recruited by the Marquis de Lafayette to carry out the dangerous mission. He is given a false identity and sent to Paris, where he becomes a member of the Jacobin Party and gains the trust of Robespierre's inner circle.
Charles soon discovers that Robespierre has become a tyrant, ruling with an iron fist and ordering the execution of anyone he deems a traitor. Charles also meets Madelon, played by Arlene Dahl, a beautiful young woman who is caught up in the revolution and becomes his love interest.
As the tension mounts, Charles becomes increasingly aware of the danger of his situation and the need to act quickly to overthrow Robespierre and restore order to France. He teams up with other revolutionaries, including a lawyer named Danton, played by the legendary actor, Vincent Price.
Reign of Terror is a gripping and suspenseful film that captures the chaos and violence of the French Revolution in a dramatic and compelling way. The movie is famous for its innovative camera work and use of shadows and lighting, which create a dark and ominous atmosphere. Overall, it is a thrilling and entertaining depiction of one of the most tumultuous periods in history.