Review of The Quiet American (2002) by Danny D — 22 Nov 2007

Contrary to much opinion, I thought this adaptation was very faithful to the novel (or at least it's intentions).

Also contrary to opinion, I feel Fraser was cast perfectly as Pyle. It's unfair to judge an actor in any particular movie by the rest of his work (and this works both ways, by the way). Fraser brings a natural sense of naivete and idealism to Pyle that was so much a part of the book that it would be hard to top, I think, by any other actor.

Caine is excellent as has been recognized, though it's probably not his finest role.

Watch this movie. Multiple times. If it doesn't strike you at first, it will definitely grow on you.