1949
Directed by Carol Reed
I watched this film quite awhile ago when I was still trying to figure out why everyone made such a fuss about Orson Welles. He actually does not direct this movie and only briefly shows up for about five minutes. Of course, he still steals the show.
A man discovers his friend is dead and begins investigating. He gets much more than he bargains for!
This movie actually feels really modern; you get a hot broad, political intrigue, heroes, and villains. In fact, if it wasn't for the film being in black and white, I am pretty sure I could convince people my age that this came out last year. I doubt they know who Orson Welles or Joseph Cotten are. Hmmmmm….
My superiority complex aside, this is a fantastic movie. Hats off to Carol Reed, who is particularly good at keeping you in suspense depending on what he does or doesn't show. In fact, look out for the cat scene because that is one of Roger Ebert's favorite camera shots of all time. Great twists and entertaining to the last minute.
RATING: ****-
Interesting Facts:
Orson Welles was two weeks late for filming. What a diva.
Carol Reed operated on around two hours of sleep every day while filming.
#57 in AFI's top 100.
