Review of A Face in the Crowd (1957) by Curtis R — 06 Apr 2010
One of the most underrated and underseen films and quite possibly one of the greatest films ever. I was surprised to learn this film was on Dvd. It has rarely been shown on television over the last 50 years because Lonesome Rhodes makes a justified mockery of not only politics but television itself.
Andy Griffith was best known for playing lovable bumpkins Sheriff Andy Taylor on The Andy Griffith Show and Will Stockdale in No Time For Sargeants. In this film, the bumpkin doesnt stay lovable long and Griffith's chilling portrayal of Larry "Lonesome" Rhodes takes the viewer on a roller coaster ride of emotion.
In the beginning of this film, Rhodes appears to be a likable and musically gifted vagrant who gains the charismatic respect and even pity from the viewer as a puppet being used by folks around him in the media.
It doesnt take long to realize that Rhodes is the puppetmaster and has been in control the whole time. On camera, Rhodes appears the good downhome country boy who spouts homespun wisdom through sermon and song but like a switch when that camera shuts off you can almost see the evil oozing from Griffith's wicked grin and hear it from his forced maniacal laugh.
It is after this that the supporting characters behind the scenes learn what a monster they have created. This film features a brilliant supporting cast from Neal, Matthau, Franciosa, and a very young and beautiful Lee Remick.
This review of A Face in the Crowd (1957) was written by Curtis R on 06 Apr 2010.
A Face in the Crowd has generally received very positive reviews.
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