Review of Underworld U.S.A. (1961) by Harim K — 01 Apr 2010
My judgement might be clouded on this one, I'm predisposed towards disliking Sam Fuller. I tried to consider it on its own merits. Still, I had some issues with it. The performances and characters were very bland to me.
I just didn't think any of these people were interesting and I didn't get invested in them at all. Also, and this is harder to put into words, but I got the feeling that Fuller was trying too hard.
The roughness, crassness and cynicism seem forced, or too on-the-nose. As a late period (1961) noir, perhaps Fuller was just trying to push the boundaries. But there are some excellent moments and touches: the "shadow murder", the fate of Merkin's daughter, Dolores Dorn sucking on a piece of ice in the most suggestive manner possible.
I didn't really enjoy it that much but I can see the appeal for some.
This review of Underworld U.S.A. (1961) was written by Harim K on 01 Apr 2010.
Underworld U.S.A. has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
