Review of Harper (1966) by Podcasting's Brock ! — 19 Aug 2012

Enjoyable, if a tad dated, modern take on the film noir about a private investigator hired to find a missing husband by her not-too-concerned wife.

The movie is terrifically filmed, highlighting the environments amazingly well (DP is the remarkable Conrad Hall) and the picture moves at a wonderful pace. The screenplay by William Goldman is another great one by him, full of his great humor and turn of phrase. Given the type of movie this is, the characters are all pretty much types, but the screenplay gives the actors much to work with. And work with it they do.

What makes HARPER remarkable is the veteran cast. This thing is packed with dependable actors giving pitch-perfect performances. Particularly impressive was Robert Wagner, Strother Martin, Julie Harris and Arthur Hill. Shelley Winters is chewing up the screen, such a great job here. Am I forgetting someone.... mmm... let me think. Oh, yeah. ;) Paul Newman gives yet another notable performance in the title role. Admittedly I'd watch him read a coloring book, but he just commands your attention in this movie. He is so present in every scene it is a delight to watch him work. From the opening shot when we see him wake up he had me, and from there with that opening scene as the credits appear he tells us everything we need to know about this guy without saying a word. And it is funny to boot. I have to keep watching more Paul Newman.

HARPER is a satisfying watch. Sure, some of the music and dancing is of its time, but it doesn't detract from the performances, the mystery plot or the fun. Check it out when you get the chance.

Recommend.