Review of The Fury (1978) by Todd C — 25 Jan 2008

One of De Palma's most fascinating films, this parapsychological thriller is surely the most downbeat mainstream film of the Seventies. Not a critical favourite, I actually like this one a lot. The first couple of times you watch it it just feels like a series of striking set-pieces poorly strung together, but with further viewings De Palma's virtuosity and inventive use of storytelling techniques (like CCTV, unusual back-projection, subjective camera and slow-motion) assert themselves.

I can't deny that the plotting does go astray later on. Though it represents a bold deviation from audience expectation, the outcome of Kirk Douglas' final reunion with his kidnapped son cannot fail to disappoint; as with Scatman Crothers' return to the Overlook Hotel in "The Shining", you wonder why he (and you) bothered.

However, John Cassavetes comeuppance at the end is worth hanging on for. John Williams contributes an excellent Bernard Herrmann-esque score.