Review of Cause for Alarm! (1951) by Kevin R — 27 Oct 2009
A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small package.
Ellen and George Jones met vicariously when George visited a hospital and faked ill for a beautiful nurse (Ellen). It is ironic that some years later, after George returns from the war, their marriage is on the rocks due to George?s heart condition. George often fakes that he is more sick than he truly is and lays horrible guilt trips on his wife. Will George?s patronizing behavior drive Ellen insane or will George cross the line and accidentally kill his wife?
?I?m going to kill you. I decided that definitely this morning.?
Tay Garnett, director of Eternally Yours, Seven Sinners, The Valley of Decision, Fast Black, Prestige (1932), China Seas, and The Flying Fool, delivers Cause for Alarm. The storyline for this picture was very detailed and well presented. The script and plot reminded me of a Hitchcock film (though the cinematography was nothing like a Hitchcock movie). The acting was magnificent and the cast contained Loretta Young (The Farmer?s Daughter) and Barry Sullivan (The Unknown Man).
?The only thing wrong with me is a double-barrel hangover.?
Cause for Alarm is part of a Thriller box set I received from my father last Christmas. This movie was only 77 minutes long; however, the film was very intricate and well written. The characters were sinister, psychotic, and smart. If you are a fan of thrillers, or Alfred Hitchcock movies, I strongly recommend seeing this picture.
?He overrated you the way he underrated me.?
Grade: B+.
This review of Cause for Alarm! (1951) was written by Kevin R on 27 Oct 2009.
Cause for Alarm! has generally received mixed reviews.
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