Many reviewers here have referred to this excellent film as a 'B' picture. That is a false accusation for multiple reasons.
Firstly, no programmer was EVER shot in Cinemascope. Secondly, Jeff Chandler, the main character, was a big star at Universal-International at this point in his career -- not to mention Orson Welles' participation in the picture. All of these factors equal an 'A' picture.
Sure, it was shot in black and white and has no major female stars. However, the female roles in the story are quite insignificant -- no major major actress would want such roles.
The film is quite timely considering it's subject matter: fascism and racism. It's frankly ahead of its time in its position on equal protection under the law for all, regardless of race -- that people of color have value and are human beings too!
I thought Chandler's performance was very strong in this film. This role suit him well and his on-screen virility in on full display here. This might be one of his best films, come to think of it.
Too many times he was overshadowed by his female co-star, almost taking a supporting position in the film, "Female on the Beach," comes to mind as an example. Luckily, in this film, he's the star and the film is entirely a showcase for his talent.
Firstly, no programmer was EVER shot in Cinemascope. Secondly, Jeff Chandler, the main character, was a big star at Universal-International at this point in his career -- not to mention Orson Welles' participation in the picture. All of these factors equal an 'A' picture.
Sure, it was shot in black and white and has no major female stars. However, the female roles in the story are quite insignificant -- no major major actress would want such roles.
The film is quite timely considering it's subject matter: fascism and racism. It's frankly ahead of its time in its position on equal protection under the law for all, regardless of race -- that people of color have value and are human beings too!
I thought Chandler's performance was very strong in this film. This role suit him well and his on-screen virility in on full display here. This might be one of his best films, come to think of it.
Too many times he was overshadowed by his female co-star, almost taking a supporting position in the film, "Female on the Beach," comes to mind as an example. Luckily, in this film, he's the star and the film is entirely a showcase for his talent.