Review of The Maltese Falcon (1941) by Dave H — 08 Feb 2014
Pretty much a perfect film. Sure it might take a couple of viewings to appreciate the complexities of all the double-crosses. But following the delicious macguffin plot is really secondary - this film is still suspenseful as hell, and rich with fantastic characterisations and performances.
..Lorre, Greenstreet, Elisha Cook...and of course Bogie all but defining the hard-bitten tough-guy private eye forever. As well as nailing the essence of the seedy characters, Huston directs economically and simply, cramming a helluva lot of plot into a very short time in a way that is NEVER seen these days (at least on the big screen).
The dialogue, especially Sam Spade's, is delivered fast but is exceptionally memorable. My favourite bit: "When you're slapped, you'll take it and like it.".
This review of The Maltese Falcon (1941) was written by Dave H on 08 Feb 2014.
The Maltese Falcon has generally received very positive reviews.
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