Marlowe (1969)

“That’s your exit line, Marlowe.  Follow it out.”, 12 August 2019

The Quick Pitch:  Marlowe is hired by a young woman from Kansas who is trying to find her lost brother.  However, Marlowe doubts the wisdom of taking his new client when he gets mixed up with a gangster named Steelgrave and a couple of deadly ice picks.

I’m really shocked at how much I enjoyed Marlowe.  Contrary to most of what I’ve read on the internet, I found Marlowe fantastically entertaining.  I’ve never read the Raymond Chandler novel this is based on so I don’t have that comparison – which is probably a good thing.  The plot is a bit convoluted, but if you’ve seen the better known The Big Sleep, it’s about what you would expect from a Chandler adapted novel.  It’ll keep you guessing throughout. The film has really groovy 60s vibe to it that I found especially appealing. The opening credit sequence and theme really set 60s stage just right.  Director Paul Bogart may be best known for his work in TV, but his direction here is on-point. He keeps things moving at a brisk pace. He filled Marlowe with plenty of action, mystery, witty dialogue, and interesting set-pieces.  In fact it’s got all the ingredients I need for a good time.

I found most of the acting in Marlowe to be top-notch.  James Garner is just so cool in the title role. His Marlowe seems so natural – it’s like he’s not even acting.  I’ve never seen the Rockford Files, but after watching Garner here, I might have to change that. Rita Moreno sizzles in her supporting role.  Her chemistry with Garner is so believable. The rest of the cast is more than adequate. I had no idea that Bruce Lee was in the film. When he popped-up, I couldn’t have been more surprised.  He doesn’t really do much other than bust-up Marlowe’s office, but that overhead light fixture kick was amazing. 

I’m not going to bother with the few minor quibbles I had with Marlowe.  When a movie is this much fun, why bother?

8/10