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| Fracture |
Gregory Hoblit's
Fracture is a thriller that doesn't thrill. Anthony Hopkins is an eccentric millionaire who murders his wife, but is able to stay one step ahead of the DA assigned to his case, Ryan Gosling. Gosling and Hopkins are both fine, though Gosling seems ill at ease with a Southern accent. Hopkins is reprising Hannibal Lecter here, another diabolical genius toying with the forces of the law. The supporting cast is impressive, but has little to do. Only Zoe Kazan stands out in a small role.
Hoblit employs a few interesting lighting effects to convey disquietude, but is generally nondescript in his direction. For some reason, the lipstick on the male actors is visible and distracting. The music is a slog and the costumes aren't much better. The flick is very predictable. Thanks to the actors, it holds your attention, but, thanks to the direction, it is instantly forgettable.
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| Day of the Outlaw |
Andre de Toth's
Day of the Outlaw is a good B movie from 1959. Andrew Sarris has stressed that the instability and treachery of relationships is de Toth central theme and from what I've seen of his work, particularly
Pitfall and
Play Dirty, this seems dead on. Even before Burl Ives and his outlaws beset a snow bound town, it is rife with discord and double dealing.
Costumes and sets are B level, but de Toth's direction is not. A circle dolly shot heightens a tormented dance sequence as the outlaws paw at their female captives. The outdoor sequences have a stark elegance that underscores the picture's somber drama. One wishes de Toth had better opportunities.
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