The Wages of Fear (1953). This classic French thriller by Clouzot was an unexpected gem. With a superbly slow beginning, we get a chance to feel the disparity that our protagonists are stuck in. Our unsung heroes are not without their flaws, but their humanity comes to fruition when the chips are down. Even the most villainous of the characters reveals his heart unexpectedly, and realistically. This is a man's world, and our heroine takes the brunt of the machismo in this grimy flick. The story was wonderful, and the slow beginning only added to the tension of the main story. The acting was plain and simple, and perfectly so. The direction caught the desperation and dirtiness of the town and allowed the viewer to almost feel it. The tension was nailed as well, at times being a knuckle-biter. The camera work was simple yet effective as well. Simply a wonderful effort by an incredible director. Ashe.
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Fate is my mistress, mother of the cruel abomination that is hope.
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