In South Africa, a "Rope of Sand" surrounds the best diamond mines in the world. Paul Vogel (Paul Henreid) is the ruthless commandant of a private diamond company police force. Former hunting guide Mike Davis (Burt Lancaster) returns despite a dark previous encounter with Vogel. Mine owner Martingale (Claude Rains) secretly blackballs his own employee Vogel from entering the private club. He hires seductress Suzanne Renaud (Corinne Calvet) to get close to Mike. Toady (Peter Lorre) is a local shady character.
With so many familiar faces, this can't help but be compared to Casablanca. It's not a good look. This is a few steps below that classic. Lancaster has an energy in his performance which clashes with the dark noir flavor of the story. He has the airs of a Hollywood hero but the role has a much darker shade. All in all, this is a second tier level movie with first class talents.
With so many familiar faces, this can't help but be compared to Casablanca. It's not a good look. This is a few steps below that classic. Lancaster has an energy in his performance which clashes with the dark noir flavor of the story. He has the airs of a Hollywood hero but the role has a much darker shade. All in all, this is a second tier level movie with first class talents.