Review of The Killers (1964) by Kenr — 15 Aug 2021

Please Note: This review is for the'44 version; This tense B/W crime thriller ranks as one of German director Robert Siodmak’s all-time best. Being hunted out of Germany by mounting Nazi pressure - this Universal International film earned him an Oscar nomination. Working with Burt Lancaster in his impressive movie debut and beautiful Ava Gardner in her first dramatic role, Siodmak brought Ernest Hemingway’s detailed heist story to vivid life. The opening is classic drama at its eerie best and the cast is peppered with a noteworthy ensemble of dramatic reliables - keeping the mystery alive to the fast-paced surprise finale. Cinematographer Woody Bredell works well with Siodmak, creating a complex moody atmosphere, adding extra style to this above-average noir. This version stands head and shoulders above the rather dismal, ‘64 color remake.

The newly cleaned-up Shock DVD transfer gives improved on-screen image and sound but stops short of a full HD remastering. Criterion may have an HD vers.