Review of Touch of Evil (1958) by Mitch B — 07 Feb 2013
It's easy to laugh at this film. Anything involving the late Charlton Heston is going to have its fair share of overacting and choppy line-delivery. The story itself is somewhat drab, and the dialogue is borderline campy.
Still, its Welles' outstanding direction, with his brilliant tracking shots and use of shadows and light, that make this a true noir classic. And of course it's what he does in front of the camera as well that forever marks this indelible film.
He brings humanity to the drunken, widower, crooked local police hero. In fact, for most of the film, he's the only three-dimensional character on screen. Watch for cameos from Joseph Cotten, Mercedes McCambridge, and Zsa Zsa Gabor.
Dennis Weaver as the dimwitted motel night manager is outstanding.
This review of Touch of Evil (1958) was written by Mitch B on 07 Feb 2013.
Touch of Evil has generally received very positive reviews.
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