Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Bogart with a beard

Those people that know their classical Hollywood cinema probably realise that the above title refers to the movie "The Treasure of Sierra Madre". At least this was the first time I saw Bogart with facial hair.

The movie is about 3 prospectors in the 1920s Mexico and their fortunes and misfortunes in search of gold. Although the story is quite predictable it is the solid acting which holds this movie together. Bogart plays Dobbs, the more cynical and suspicious of the three, accompanied by Howard (Walter Houston), the experienced one, and the pure-hearted Curtin (Tim Holt).

The most interesting character is probably the one portrayed by Bogart, because of his inner conflicts and ambiguity. He gives a very solid performance quite different from the typical macho Bogart, and also reminds me of his performance in "In A Lonely Place" .

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