Review of Lolita (1962) by Frank J — 28 Apr 2011
Expecting a film built solely on shock value, I was disappointed to find a tame adaptation of Nabokov's novel, Lolita. Adding three years to the feral Lolita's age downplayed the true nature of this film's predatory intention.
The attraction between Mason and Lyon never reaches any type of climax, every hint of sexual unease masked by fadeouts and inuendos. Sue Lyon is an exceptional choice for the role, playing up her childish mannerisms, yet being manipulative with her affections.
You're never quite sure if she is attracted to her stepfather, or simply using him to satisfy her every whim. Mason's usual suave demeanor is downplayed in order to contrast to the desperation of Shelley Winter's character, who he uses to get closer to her daughter.
He believes he's a ladies man, not needing the romanticism of a relationship with Winters, and yet he can't even hold the attention of her daughter. Not one of Kubrick's stronger films, the best part is the ending, revealing the intentions of Peter Sellers' character Clare Quilty.
Known for playing multiple roles, Sellers pops up at every turn, the comic relief in a film about pedophilia. I feel there was no need to include his sometimes extended scenes when the plot slowed, as it only made this film longer than it needed be.
Overall, not anything all that original.
This review of Lolita (1962) was written by Frank J on 28 Apr 2011.
Lolita has generally received very positive reviews.
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