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Genres, Themes, Actors, and Directors:
- Cold War
- Ed Begley Sr. Films
- Karl Malden Films
- Ken Russell Films
- Michael Caine Films
- Spies
Review:
Ken Russell’s follow-up to his (non-GFTFF-listed) debut film French Dressing (1964) was this big-budget entry in Harry Saltzman’s Harry Palmer trilogy, based once again on a novel by Len Deighton. While Russell struggled and felt constrained under Saltzman’s leadership, the resulting film nonetheless shows his unique directorial style at play, to compelling effect.
The Cold War storyline is typically wild, sending Palmer to the coldest reaches of Finland, over to Texas, and back again to Latvia through cinematic feats of magic.
There are double crossings, seductions, and an encounter with a beloved character from Funeral in Berlin, Oskar Homolka’s Colonel Stok.
Malden is an appropriately slimy shyster, well-paired with beautiful but deceptive Dorléac.
It’s a good thing Palmer keeps his wits about him at all times.
Notable Performances, Qualities, and Moments:
- Michael Caine as Harry Palmer
- Françoise Dorléac as Anya
- Karl Malden as Leo Newbegin
- Ed Begley as General Midwinter
- Billy Williams’ cinematography
- Fine production design
- Creative opening credits
- Richard Rodney Bennett’s score
Must See?
Yes. While its value is debated, I consider this a fine and worthy entry in the Harry Palmer trilogy – and an auspicious post-debut for Russell.
Categories
- Good Show
- Important Director
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