Review of Cape Fear (1991) by Vanya M — 05 Apr 2012
A solid, memorable and extremely visceral tale.
Watching Scorsese take on his first remake is just as powerful today as it was when it was first released 20 years ago. Each shot is framed like a picture and the use of sound and music to amp up the intensity of the story is just masterful (the overpowering Hermann really is the signature of this tale).
Castwise, Nolte and Lange are absolutely fine as the bickering couple who have to face the demons of thier past. They make no attempts to soften their characters and their arguements and interactions feel particularly real as a result. The film really does belong to De Niro and Juliette Lewis. De Niro of course owns the screen whenever he pops up and his campaign of intimidation from its subtle beginnings is just brilliant to watch. He is truly great in this film and it just makes me a little sad that we don't see him take on roles that challenge him anymore. As for Lewis, she is simply terrific in this film and keeps up with De Niro and her (then) more experienced cast with ease.
Whilst Scorsese may have seen this as 'one for the studio', this hasn't stopped him from delivering a genuinely exciting thriller.
This review of Cape Fear (1991) was written by Vanya M on 05 Apr 2012.
Cape Fear has generally received very positive reviews.
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