Review of The Big Sleep (1946) by Michael T — 07 Feb 2012

Wow, what a movie.

It is rare that I see a film so great that I have a hard time writing a review about it. I fear that I just would not do the movie justice if I tried to put it into words.

A wealthy patriarch hires private eye Phillip Marlowe (Humphrey Bogart) to find out what his socialite daughter has been up to. She has been acting peculiar and her father fears the worst. Once Marlowe starts investigating, he uncovers a whole host of cover-ups, dirty secrets, and dramatic plotlines.

Bogart is easily at his best in this film. Honestly, he is a complete badass. He is as adept at biting sarcasm and deadpan as he is with his fists and detective skills. You sit in awe at his screen presence and wish you were half as cool as he was. Heh.

The supporting cast were no slouch either. Every character was interesting and well portrayed. Most notable, of course, was Lauren Bacall. She stood out the instant she appeared on the screen and was perfectly mysterious with a hint of danger.

I saw this movie for the first time several days ago and it has been on my mind since. Just a few minutes into it and I was enthralled. I simply had to know what was going on and with such great actors and characters, I almost didn't want it to end. I happily add it to my favorites of all time list.

10 Scale Rating: 10.0 ...