A Lady Without Passport

A Lady Without Passport

Year: 1950

Runtime: 74 mins

Language: English

Director: Joseph H. Lewis

CrimeThriller

An undercover U.S. immigration officer is assigned to infiltrate a Havana‑based smuggling ring that ships undocumented migrants to the United States. While posing as a facilitator, he falls romantically with a desperate woman trying to enter the country, forcing both to confront how long she can remain hidden and the dangerous repercussions of their forbidden love.

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Timeline & Setting – A Lady Without Passport (1950)

Explore the full timeline and setting of A Lady Without Passport (1950). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Post-World War II era

The events take place shortly after World War II, a period marked by recovering economies, displaced refugees, and increased migration. The post-war era saw heightened tensions and efforts to control illegal immigration, which is central to the film’s plot involving smuggling and border security.

Location

Havana, Cuba, Florida Everglades

The movie is primarily set in Havana, Cuba, a vibrant city known for its rich history, colorful architecture, and lively culture. The Florida Everglades, a vast and unique wetland ecosystem, serve as a critical location for the climax, with its dense mangroves and dangerous wildlife adding to the suspense.

🏝️ Caribbean 🌴 Tropical 🐊 Swamp

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:51

Main Characters – A Lady Without Passport (1950)

Meet the key characters of A Lady Without Passport (1950), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Pete Karczag

An American operative in Havana, Pete is determined and resourceful, tasked with dismantling Palinov's smuggling ring. He develops a moral dilemma as he falls in love with Marianne, balancing his duty with his feelings.

👮‍♂️ Agent 💔 Romantic 🔍 Investigative

Marianne Lorress

An Austrian refugee of Buchenwald, Marianne is penniless and desperate to escape Europe. Her resilience amid hardship and her eventual romantic involvement with Pete highlight her strength and vulnerability.

🧳 Refugee 💪 Resilient ❤️ Victim

Palinov

A cunning Levantine café owner and human smuggler, Palinov is ruthless and manipulative. His actions drive the plot, as he seeks to evade capture and control his illegal operations.

💼 Criminal 😈 Ruthless 🥷 Underworld

Frank Westlake

An American official supervising the operation, Westlake prioritizes saving lives over strict enforcement. His decisions influence the outcome, highlighting themes of moral gray areas.

👔 Authority 🤝 Protector 🕊️ Humanitarian

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:51

Major Themes – A Lady Without Passport (1950)

Explore the central themes of A Lady Without Passport (1950), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🕵️‍♂️ Espionage

The film explores undercover operations, intelligence gathering, and deception. Pete Karczag’s covert mission in Havana epitomizes espionage activities during the Cold War era, emphasizing themes of loyalty, danger, and investigation.

❤️ Love and Sacrifice

The story depicts a complicated romantic relationship formed under perilous circumstances. Pete’s emotional conflict and Marianne’s plight highlight themes of love, sacrifice, and moral choices amidst danger and political turmoil.

🚤 Escape and Survival

The narrative culminates in a tense escape across the Florida Everglades, emphasizing themes of survival against all odds. The perilous journey through the wilderness reflects resilience and the desperate quest for freedom.

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 04:51

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A Lady Without Passport Summary

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A Lady Without Passport Summary

A Lady Without Passport Timeline

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A Lady Without Passport Timeline

A Lady Without Passport Spoiler-Free Summary

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A Lady Without Passport Spoiler-Free Summary

More About A Lady Without Passport

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A Lady Without Passport (1950) Plot Summary & Movie Recap

A Lady Without Passport (1950) Scene-by-Scene Movie Timeline

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