Reviews

Not sure if my title will pass muster. Lee Marvin, a masculine guy out for revenge pursues his money and perhaps, a woman. This is a late 60's movie that hits certain buttons for action, attractive women and the little guy against the "establishment." Marvin is his usually understated self. Tough and cool. A decent plot as Marvin chases various, typical bad guys to get what is owed to him. The direction is what one would expect from a movie from this era. The cinematography is solid. The cast is wonderful. Carroll O'Connor before he was Archie. Angie Dickinson talking about powerful men using their influence over her. The movie is a reminder of better times for me, when my Dad used to get candy for me and my brothers for some fun. I guess when you're getting old, a movie like this is sufficient. The pyrotechnics, contrived action, sexual bs and the usual attractions of 2023 don't entertain me. San Francisco before Gov Newsom?

It's a nine star because the message is so unlike the films made today. Oh yeah, they're on strike! Is that over yet? Made in the midst of the second great world war, this is really fine filmmaking. The cast is excellent. Movie stars are supposed to look like teenagers and it all comes off. The message is positive. Yes, much of the dialog seems corny but, again the message is wonderful, hopeful and associated with an older dark time in the history of America. Handsome, competent male actors. Women so lovely it could make moviegoers cry, which I'm sure it did. Ronald Reagan gets off a line even better than the famous, "where's the rest of me." I recommend this movie to any age group. The social issues addressed are relevant and done tastefully. I'm going to insist my family watches it with me. So much to discuss here.

Lana Turner is gorgeous dame circa post WWIIJohn Garfield looked like a nervous cat. A typical 40's acting job. My rating is based on the moviemaking times. Why the censors would have been concerned with the subject matter is interesting. Lana Turner in white was a tip of the hat to the censors. Having her costumed in black would have suggested something too sinister for 1946? The love between the two major players was supposed to make the evil a more palatable. The supporting cast was more than adequate but, the script was a little weak. The direction was solid. The cinematography is solid. Kids will say, "but it's in black and white." Still an above average film.