Review of Arabesque (1966) by Chris B — 01 Dec 2007
One of my all-time favourites that has curiously taken an age to appear on Flixster. A great follow-up to Charade from the same director, with some of that film’s hallmarks: an opening title by Maurice Binder and a score by Henry Mancini.
It’s still a spy thriller but far more stylish, centring around a cipher which Peck, as an Oxford Uni prof, must break to aid the cause of an Arab nation. He is either aided or hampered by Loren—you’ll have to see the film to find out which side she’s on—as Donen leads us at a very nice pace through double-crosses and plot twists.
Badel hams it up as a villain in one of his campest performances: the way the man act behind those shades is fabulous. Beautiful cinematography with Challis playing with mirrors throughout. Stylistically, this film represents ’60s design and the fashionable look of London far better than many others considered iconic for the decade, including Blow Up.
Loren’s Christian Dior wardrobe helped continue the idea that French couturiers are best and she did look great in everything she wore here.
This review of Arabesque (1966) was written by Chris B on 01 Dec 2007.
Arabesque has generally received mixed reviews.
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