Torn Curtain Review
Before you see this film, do not expect it to be absolutely brilliant just because it’s directed by Alfred Hitchcock. It is certainly not one of his most famous, or best films for that matter, nor, in my opinion, is it particularly well made. That said, it does feature the odd exciting moments, the music is up to its typical standard for a Hitchcock film, and not all the acting is that bad.
The plot is quite good, and starts off with the main character, Michael Armstrong, a top US scientist, flying off to (supposedly) defect to East Germany, in order to get a secret formula in the possession of enemy scientist Gustav Lindt. The problem is, his fiancée has grown suspicious and follows him on the plane, forcing him to involve her in his double agent game.
Alfred Hitchcock’s 50th film, features hit and miss actors/actresses, including the convincing, innocent Julie Andrews (who I expected to burst into song any minute!), and the painfully effortless Paul Newman. An extended and rather unrealistic kitchen scene depicting how difficult it really is to kill a human being, is rather memorable, and I can see how see how it may have seemed shocking at the time. Nevertheless, this was a welcome return to Hitchcock’s usual style. Spot the cameo of the man himself inside the hotel!
The last half generally livens up more than the first, but that doesn’t stop the obvious fake sets, slow plot and depressing atmosphere detracting from the film. Action fans will be rather disappointed, as there are only a few scenes, which build up tension
(eg. in the kitchen and on the bus).
Overall, a film for only the most devoted Hitchcock fans, which won’t entirely welcome any newcomers!
6.5/10.
Before you see this film, do not expect it to be absolutely brilliant just because it’s directed by Alfred Hitchcock. It is certainly not one of his most famous, or best films for that matter, nor, in my opinion, is it particularly well made. That said, it does feature the odd exciting moments, the music is up to its typical standard for a Hitchcock film, and not all the acting is that bad.
The plot is quite good, and starts off with the main character, Michael Armstrong, a top US scientist, flying off to (supposedly) defect to East Germany, in order to get a secret formula in the possession of enemy scientist Gustav Lindt. The problem is, his fiancée has grown suspicious and follows him on the plane, forcing him to involve her in his double agent game.
Alfred Hitchcock’s 50th film, features hit and miss actors/actresses, including the convincing, innocent Julie Andrews (who I expected to burst into song any minute!), and the painfully effortless Paul Newman. An extended and rather unrealistic kitchen scene depicting how difficult it really is to kill a human being, is rather memorable, and I can see how see how it may have seemed shocking at the time. Nevertheless, this was a welcome return to Hitchcock’s usual style. Spot the cameo of the man himself inside the hotel!
The last half generally livens up more than the first, but that doesn’t stop the obvious fake sets, slow plot and depressing atmosphere detracting from the film. Action fans will be rather disappointed, as there are only a few scenes, which build up tension
(eg. in the kitchen and on the bus).
Overall, a film for only the most devoted Hitchcock fans, which won’t entirely welcome any newcomers!
6.5/10.
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