Review of Carnal Knowledge (1971) by Tim S — 13 Sep 2009

Really enjoyed this film. I am a big fan of Closer and am becoming an even bigger fan of Mike Nichols with every one of his gems that I am watching. As a director, he brilliantly works with actors and really knows how to bring the best out of them.

Outside of Catch 22, I didn't know what to think of Art Garfunkel as an actor (love him as Paul Simon's back up singer), but he surprised me and I loved his performance. Nicholson is Nicholson and proves why he is one of the best actors of all time.

I loved the relationship between him and Ann Margaret. And that's another thing about Nichols is that he draws great performances out of actresses and actors that otherwise are considered just pretty faces (Julia Roberts is another example).

I think the writing drew me into this film, but the camera work and performances put it over the top.