Review of Torn Curtain (1966) by Tom D — 21 Jan 2013

After a slow start Hitchcock proves once again why he is the master of suspense with the second half of 'Torn Curtain' firing on all cylinders despite two painfully dull leading characters. In fact, this movie alone might best demonstrate Hitch's power over his audience for getting us to care and be concerned about two characters that wouldn't make an impression on anyone under another director's hands. Andrews and Newman might be lovely and they what they can with the script provided but they're pretty much on their own.

Let me list some of the fantastic set pieces that end up making this film a rousing success: the farm house murder, the discovery of the body, the bus scenes, the post office scene, the theater scene, and the finale getting off of the boat.

And I MUST mention Lila Kedrova as the Polish Countess trying to earn herself some sponsors in America. Seriously one of my favorite bit part performances of all time.