Review of The Manchurian Candidate (1962) by Jess K — 14 Jan 2010

Perhaps one of the few cold war propaganda films worth preserving as art, and perhaps the basis by which many current people still see the world. Honestly, many of Lansbury's early diatribes could come verbatim from Michelle Bachmann (of course, her motivation would be totally different).

The pacing and development are noticeably dated compared to today's faster films, but the intelligent story and slow boil make for a great payout. The nightmare/brainwash scene in particular is brilliantly staged.

Some line readings feel stiff, even those that aren't supposed to be, but Sinatra is very natural in his role and Lansbury is tremendous as the worst mother in every possible way. This is simply a well-made, smart film with a frighteningly palpable paranoia that could never be done today (and it was sadly tried).

It's just unfortunate that this level of overblown, hyper-suspicion still exists in people who are attempting to be taking as something other than fictional characters in an intentionally sensationalized piece of propaganda.

Bachmann and her ill-informed ilk should update their insane rantings.