Review of The Defiant Ones (1958) by Tonypolito — 22 Oct 2010
The film bears two Oscars, six Oscar nods, and dialogue/drama strong enough to have withstood the test of time.
Sidney Poitier and Tony Curtis escape prison filled with mutual racial prejudice/hatred, but, chained together at the wrists, they must continually cooperate in order to stay one step ahead of the bloodhounds. In the process and proximity, they come to understand and respect each another - and to comprehend the societal/economic oppression, the larger prison, they have in common. Then, when their shackles are finally broken, the duo find themselves bound together even more strongly by their shared lust for freedom.
The quality of the acting, drama and dialogue allows the film to stand on its own, beyond the obvious discussion of racial issues it was designed to deliver to a 1950s audience. Curtis, normally typed as a comedic actor, delivers drama solid, hence essential Curtis.
And the outcome of their odyssey is never a forgone conclusion, suspenseful to the very end.
RECOMMENDATION: Still worthy dramatic viewing almost fifty years later. Well recommended.
This review of The Defiant Ones (1958) was written by Tonypolito on 22 Oct 2010.
The Defiant Ones has generally received very positive reviews.
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