MovieChat Forums > Touch of Evil (1958) Discussion > Is this movie only considered good becau...

Is this movie only considered good because of camera angles and lighting


Because it was so boring that I turned it off after 40 minutes or so. Very outdated. Bad story. Bad acting (Welles character, the Mexicans, the crazy hotel assistant, etc.). I tried to give it a chance....but dang it was total boredom.

I realize that some are interested in camera angles and lighting. And that's fine. But for a person like me who's not interested in that....does this movie get better later on or something?? Because it starts out terribly as far as entertainment value. And I don't think even this movie's biggest fans can say differently.

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You really have no idea what you're talking about, do you?

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Mr OP:

I'm not sure why you're even taking the time and bother to make a post like this. If you really want an in-depth, critical analysis on the merits (or the lack thereof) on this movie, I suggest you refer to the user reviews section. But if your true intent isn't trollish, you sure could have fooled me!


Secret Message, HERE!--->CONGRATULATIONS!!! You've discovered the Secret Message!

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So you guys think that the story and characters are good, and the movie is entertaining?

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I liked the good characters. Disliked the bad ones. Was conflicted about the ambiguous ones. I was invested in the mystery and fearful when the characters were in danger. I was, overall, entertained and kept in suspense. All that stuff worked independent of the cinematography. Although it must be noted that that stuff does significantly enhance the film.

I should point out though that I saw the reconstructed version, not the theatrical release. So it may be a very different experience.

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It is a great film, and should be judged in the context of it's genre, (Film Noir,) and the era in which it was made, (late 1950's.) Most of all, it is hard to judge a good story, if you don't watch it to the end! In a lot of ways this is a character driven and psychological story that examines dark themes of criminality, corruption, racism, substance abuse, and situational ethics.

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It is a great film, and should be judged in the context of it's genre, (Film Noir,) and the era in which it was made, (late 1950's.)


Well, noir is my highest rated genre here on IMDB but I think that this one is decidedly mediocre specimen other than photography. If you want a great late period noir watch Kiss Me Deadly it also has great photography but also great characters and completely insane plot.

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