After an amazing first 15 minutes which is just pure class, the film sadly drops to average, even below average as it really begins to drag. If only it retained the same quality, look, feel and dialogue throughout the whole movie that was used in the classic opening scene. If it did, then I can understand all the high ratings. However sadly what is a boring middle and average ending, is why I give this such a low mark. The stand out performances for me in the movie was not Lancaster or Gardner, but the two hitmen we see at the beginning. My advice, watch the opening first 15 minutes only and then read the short story the movie was based on instead.
Review of The Killers
