Review of The Night of the Hunter (1955) by Christy P — 10 Oct 2013

I honestly don't know how anyone can dislike this movie. It's just excellent. If there were anything to complain about, it certainly wouldn't be Charles Laughton's work. He did a perfect job; the quality of his product is flawless.

I think those who think it as hokey, or whatever, have been poisoned by their view of other older movies that really are hokey. Just the film cutting in itself is not what makes it believable or not. Dramatic music when used correctly is necessary for a great film, not detracting.

Anyone with a fresh view would condone the job done here. Why do you think the critics at the time it came out were so happy with it, and unhappy with other movies done with a similar sense of drama? Because the other movies weren't done nearly so well.

The storyline and acting probably were not worth the effort in those other films. But this movie has all the elements that make one awesome; Story, script, acting, editing, music, timing, contrast, everything.