Review of Three Days of the Condor (1975) by Craig T — 09 May 2011
Sydney Pollack was a talented presence both behind the camera and in front of it. This is one of his best works behind it I believe. He creates an isolated protagonist that is more of a researcher than a field agent but when his world gets tipped upside down, he must fall back on his training, find out what has triggered his upheaval, and ultimately survive another day. Pollack brings some pure intensity to the table early in the story by abruptly introducing violence to the mundane routine of a bookworm agent. This kicks off the rest of the story which keeps our interest at a notable pace.
Not knowing who to trust after his entire office of colleagues are murdered, Robert Redford (code named Condor) tries to put the pieces together and make it through the other side alive. He is the only survivor and it appears the crime is pinned on him. Always a potent force on screen, Max von Sydow, fits the mysterious operative role quite well and gives the story an ambiguous jolt as he slides in and out of the story. This film contains some thrilling action sequences and delivers some characters that one can buy into. Redford put some hard work into this role. He is a great center of the story and is well surrounded by his supporting cast. We question everything we see and hear: it all adds up to conspiracy.
I wish the conspiracy would have been a little easier to follow, however, but perhaps never knowing who is on what side was part of the plan. Had I of known a little more about the bad guys I would have had much more anticipation as the story unfolded. Also, while I love Faye Dunaway and she is nice to have involved here, I just didn't see where the chemistry was legit between she and Redford. Sudden shock by kidnapping = romantic fling? I suppose that is where Redford's charm comes into play. The film's focus is tight and Pollack completed his mission. Overall, it was well balanced with a thick conspiracy plot but in the end it comes manages to pull off a nice thriller. (B).
This review of Three Days of the Condor (1975) was written by Craig T on 09 May 2011.
Three Days of the Condor has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
