Review of Murder, My Sweet (1944) by Robert Z — 21 Jan 2019
Acceptable but none too memorable adaptation of Chandler's Farewell, My Lovely. It's hard to adapt Chandler to Hollywood standards (romance, happy endings, etc) but this movie does well on look, feel, and adhering to the text when it's not shoehorning the plot to fit above Hollywood norms, which means it's ultimately a bit corny and dated.
It's also hampered by a dreadfully miscast Miles Mander (in unconvincing old man makeup) as the frail but passionate cuckold who stinks up every scene he's in. This is the kind of movie I'd be grateful for having the option of watching on a long flight but probably isn't worth seeking out in its own right.
For Chandler adaptations you still can't beat Altman's unconventional The Long Goodbye. Or try The Man Who Wasn't There, which is not based on Chandler but captures his spirit better than any other movie I can think of.
This review of Murder, My Sweet (1944) was written by Robert Z on 21 Jan 2019.
Murder, My Sweet has generally received very positive reviews.
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