Review of The Wages of Fear (1953) by Jan O — 22 Apr 2009
(1953) Review refers to the DVD. Five stars. A total nail-biter, this is probably, IMHO, the greatest suspense film ever made. The scenes at the oil pond, especially, and of the outrageous, nihlistic ending are unforgettable.
Sure, the political agenda depicted here is simplistic and polemical, but it shouldn't detract from viewer enjoyment of this awesome cinematic achievement. Beware the 1977 remake from William Friedkin called "Sorcerer" which starred the late Roy Scheider -- it's a decent film, but no where near as good as the original.
Filmed in plain black-and-white, director Clouzot's masterpiece is ample proof that you don't need CGI or a huge FX budget to make a stunning suspenser -- you just need brains, determination and talent.
This review of The Wages of Fear (1953) was written by Jan O on 22 Apr 2009.
The Wages of Fear has generally received very positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
