Review of Witness (1985) by Diego E — 16 Jan 2011

Harrison Ford is a cop on the run. In 1985, that concept would seem tired and rote. However, in this film, there is fresh suspense, a strong element of mystery and very fine acting from Ford himself. It unfolds against the backdrop of an Amish community, and the film uses the rich culture and traditions of the Amish people to its adva.

..ntage and without cheaply exoticising them. At first glance, the film is small and unassuming apart from its lead actor, but therein lies its greatest strength. It's filmmaking pared down to the effective basics.

The romantic element of the film is strong and sometimes genuinely affecting, Kelly McGillis very effective as a quiet single mother for whom Ford's character Det. John Book pines endlessly for. The scene where they embrace in the rain could've been cheesy and silly, but instead is poignant, sweet and sad all at once.

Lukas Haas, recently seen in Inception as "Nash", plays the young boy Samuel with a mix of wide-eyed innocence and uncertain caution, as his mother Rachel tries to protect her son, the titular witness.

It can be said they don't make movies like this anymore - Witness appears to have no hidden agenda or moneyspinning conceit, it's just a simple, riveting story.