Movie Review - The Third Alibi

The Third Alibi

1961

The Cast

This is now one of my favourite films.  As a writer, you come across a story once in a while that you wish you wrote... this is one of mine.

Marriage isn't going well for Norman Martell (Payne), though his wife, Helen (Dainton), has no idea about how he feels.  Norman is so discouraged that he has an affair with Helen's stepsister, Peggy Hill (Griffiths).  Upon hearing the news that Peggy is pregnant he tells Helen he wants a divorce.  Unfortunately for Helen, when he can't get a separation he and Peggy form a plan to kill her...

Even though the twist is telegraphed early on it's not the climax, that you know is coming, that sells this film.  It's the story, acting, and direction.  All the cast give solid, credible and realistic performances.   No one actor or actress is better than the rest.  And even though the pace is steady throughout it's the combination of timing, writing, and great characterisations that makes the ending perfect.  All the pivotal and important elements weave together at precisely the right time.

One of the best things for me is the ending itself which is delivered like a punchline.  Which is fitting, especially if you like dark humour and believe in karma.  I admit to actually saying, "Oh Yeah," out loud, along with the closing line, which is really easy to figure out... with a huge grin on my face.

I loved this film... actually, loved this film.

It's with that affirmation in my heart that I recommend this murder mystery to all out there.  If you don't enjoy it then there's summat up wit'ya.

You even get a free song from the marvellous voice of Cleo Lane - you can't get any better.

I give this dysfunctional family affair a heartfelt 7.75 out of 10.

The Trailer

Movie Review - Escaping Dad

Escaping Dad

AKA:  Amber Alert

2017

The Cast

This is the story of an abused wife, Erin (Mabrey) on the run from her violent husband, Darren (Wiles).  As soon as he realises what's happening, she's picked up the children, Amy (Van Dien) and Charlie (Walken), and has hit the road on the way to the safety of her friend.  Being the DA, Darren pulls a few strings and tells a few lies and has an Amber Alert put on his runaway family.

To be truthful, there's not much new in this story.  However, it's well scripted and structured which helps to keep it interesting.  There is a slight twist to the tale, though it feels like it's an add-on to make things more engaging.  For me, this second story arc wasn't required as the story itself is fine.  Along with the directing and acting you have a decent and above average TV Thriller.

The only thing in the story that's a little weak is Erin's steadfastness at not telling her daughter the truth.  I can understand not letting her young son in on the awfulness of life and marriage but Amy is in her late teens and should be able to handle it.  However, I did like that Amy still stuck by her mother, even though she hadn't been told the facts and constantly moaned about going home.

Even though Kohn doesn't add anything new to the direction of the movie, he still brings across a tension, which appears to creep through the film.  It's always there, though at times it becomes more evident.  He also uses light to subtly create atmosphere.  For example, he adds lens flare and haze to make the day look brighter while the runaways are driving.  While in the car there's the air of unease, especially on Erin's face.

In fact, Sunny Mabrey is brilliant in the portrayal of Erin.  In most of her scenes, she has that air of nervousness.  You can believe she's constantly worrying about what could happen... what will Darren do next to find her?  How far will he go?  Jason Wiles is good at adding menace to the film as Darren.  He's a strong single-minded man who wants everything his way and will do anything to make that happen, and Wiles gets this across in every scene.  Even the supporting cast get into their characterisations, there's a trucker who appears a little creepy and untrustworthy; his name is Trucker Pete and David Ury portrays this well, though he's only on screen a few seconds.

This is one of those TV Thrillers I'd watch again.  It was enjoyable and passed an hour and a half so I didn't have to go out in the snow.  So if it's a bad day or a lazy Sunday, then this film is a good way to spend your time.

I give this a runaway 6 out of 10.

The Trailer