Review of The Night of the Hunter (1955) by Jim L — 13 Jul 2009

Charles Laughton's only film credit as director: a one-hit wonder for the ages. This is an incredibly thrilling piece of filmmaking, shot with unique expressionistic flair. The use of light and shadow is especially memorable.

Strong performances all around, including the child actors, but special praise goes to Robert Mitchum for creating one of the most memorable villains in movie history. The film is an often terrifying look at the power of religion in the hands (pardon the pun) of the righteous and the opportunist.

As a Christian, I find it challenging and ultimately encouraging. Harry Powell is a vivid example of the kind of person that uses piety for financial gain. He is, however, much more dangerous than any televangelist I've ever heard of.

At the other end of the spectrum, Lillian Gish's character is a strong Christian woman. Gish shows a much different side of her than we saw in her silent films. Her character displays "pure religion and undefiled" as she takes in the fleeing children.

The juxtaposition of good and evil is one of the most effective ever shown on the screen. It's brilliant.