(1959, Otto Preminger)
Regarding the image above, you gotta talk Saul Bass when discussing this film. While you’re at it, watch the Bass-designed title sequence. It’s priceless.
Star-studded court drama which focuses on the thrilling world of trial law, moreso than the anatomy of a murder. Director Preminger is certainly more interested in exploring process and interaction than the ramifications of an actual killing. Seems to be the precursor for many a modern courtroom movie, filled with verbal bombast and eloquent argumentation. It’s a thinking person’s flick, but it leaves behind a cold feeling. Maybe it’s the Upper Peninsula setting taking its toll. Dem Yoopers can be odd folks.
All said, Jimmy Stewart is excellent as usual. Lee Remick is decent, but miscast as the town flirt. Duke Ellington music is used throughout to great effect.
4.0/5.0
Filed under: Film Reviews, Top 1000 | Tagged: anatomy of a murder, duke ellington, james stewart, jimmy stewart, lawyers in love, lee remick, otto preminger, saul bass, yooper
