SECRET AGENT (1936) **1/2 W. Somerset Maugham wrote a nice story with the cool name Ashenden, but in translation to film it picked up this entirely generic title. That happens, sometimes. The good news is that Alfred Hitchcock chose to direct it, which ensures unforgettable angles, fades and cuts, including the most dramatic introduction of a dog leash that I've ever seen. More bad news is that the identity of the bad guy is telegraphed from early on, and none of the actors are particularly convincing as secret agents. Peter Lorre is very silly, which is the best of it, and Madeleine Carroll is reasonably credible as something else. Hitchock uncharacteristically but repeatedly plays cards before their time, things keep happening before the screen is ready for them. The stupid romance(s) needn't have happened at all. The good news-back to technique again-is that none of the film's shortcomings matter all that much once things get headed down the home stretch (the denouement is effective, film students), as trivial plot strands are tied together in beknotted frustration borne of the indulgences of the master. Shadows, homecomings, the lusty subterfuge of the profession of lying, mountains, trains…it doesn't look like a strobe light, but it feels a lot like one.
back to Brilliant Observations on 1776 Films page, or Index
go back home, or send me email
Reviews won't do it any more! I need sustained brilliance! I want to buy your novel!