Review of Touch of Evil (1958) by Michael D — 16 Feb 2013

Very well done movie representing film-noir in its last days. Not surprising considering Orson Welles was the director. Stark, gritty with great camera work highlight this tale of corruption, drug use, prostitution and vice in general in a US-Mexican border town.

Charlton Heston doesn't quite pull off the role of a Mexican but he keeps his usual overacting and emoting to a lower degree than usual. Orson Welles is phenomenal as director and actor. As actor his role as the corrupt sheriff is a role I'm not likely to forget - I forget that his acting ability is on a par with his more famous directing ability.

And Janet Leigh! Wow - she is smoking hot in this film at her sexiest. The Dennis Weaver part of a emotionally disturbed motel clerk is a bit overwrought but fun nevertheless. I was surprised by how modern the film was in dealing with controversial topics back in the late 1950s.

And with a morally ambiguous ending. Overall, a classic film that showcases the genius of Orson Welles and provides film-noir atmosphere and suspense aplenty.