Review of Touch of Evil (1958) by Blake P — 17 Aug 2011

This movie is amazing! Though its very hard to describe every detail, "Touch of Evil" is one of the best film noir movies ever. Orson was past forty, and still had not made a hit since "Citizen Kane".

Shockingly enough, this wasn't a success either, making it seem like OW was a one-hit wonder... well, to people in the Golden Age. Now, this is considered his second best to "Citizen". I still haven't seen CK, but I can tell you this much-- this is a must-see movie! Every actor shines here, and makes the most of their roles, which as you all know (if you read my reviews) is something I love to see! Charlton Heston was past "The Ten Commandments" and proved that even after doing a major film he could step down to a lesser, more dramatic role.

He's great, and though he seems like a weird one to put in a gritty movie like this, it turns out its not. Janet Leigh is pre- "Psycho" in this one. Yes, her role is similar to the latter, but does that really matter? Every one loved her, and plus, she doesn't even get murdered this time! A Bonus! She isn't a femme fatale in this, but it seems like with every film noir you get, the woman is always a "ff" or a damsel in distress, and she's the second one.

Though her role is not new to anyone, she still does a great job and the movie would not be the same without her. These two actors were wonderful, it's Welles that steals the show. Yes, Welles, the director and writer of this film to top it all off.

I'm not sure if he gained weight for this role or not, but his character of the hard-edged fatty cop is really good, and makes an awesome villainous turn. This movie belongs to him, which is not a surprise in any way.

"Touch of Evil" is the perfect movie, and is something that is seriously worth seeing.