A Richard Brooks’ masterclass

Not seen on TV for a while, this is one that I’d wanted to see in full for years – which really demonstrates the value of the DVD hire system (well done there, whoever you are for putting this one on the list).

Pleased to report that it did not disappoint at all. Burt Lancaster is terrific, some really good set pieces, great dialogue and the whole thing looks good.

Which really brings us to the director Richard Brooks and a recommendation that you check out this underrated Hollywood-based writer/director. His name does not currently rank with the nomenclature of Tennessee Williams, Sinclair Lewis, Trumann Capote and Evan Hunter which represents the decorated alternative Hollywood nor with our own Joseph Conrad – but perhaps it will when someone gets round to a retrospective and stands his work one alongside each other.

Too lofty? Well then take a look at Shirley Jones as Lulu Baines – when she tucks those dollar bills in ‘the safest bank in America’ you’d better believe there’ll be no withdrawals today…..