It's clear what must attracted director Stanley Donnen to this project. The last time he tried his hand at a non musical film, "Charade", it turned out to be an immense hit. Mr. Donnen probably thought this movie would be as appreciated as the latter one, but alas, even though it's by no means, a dud, on second viewing, there are signs that perhaps he should have sticked to the other genre where he excelled.
It must have seemed to be a great idea to throw Gregory Peck, an aging star, who always gave a good performance, against Sophia Loren, at the height of her beauty. Yet, the results are not as pleasing. Ms. Loren, dressed by Christian Dior, seems to be having great fun running around in those beautiful costumes in the construction site where she keeps her schmatte in great shape after almost being killed by the villain working a construction crane. On the other hand, Gregory Peck doesn't seem too convincing to be the hero in the film
There are parts shot on exteriors where it's supposed to be raining and no one gets wet. One of the funniest moment in the film is when Professor Pollock, who might have been tripping on acid, rides a bicycle against the highway traffic. The scenes at the London Zoo, and the last montage on the bridge are about the most exciting things in the picture.
Despite the great titles by Maurice Binder, the copy of the film we watched on cable recently, had a washed out look, which perhaps took away some of the enjoyment of watching this thriller.
It must have seemed to be a great idea to throw Gregory Peck, an aging star, who always gave a good performance, against Sophia Loren, at the height of her beauty. Yet, the results are not as pleasing. Ms. Loren, dressed by Christian Dior, seems to be having great fun running around in those beautiful costumes in the construction site where she keeps her schmatte in great shape after almost being killed by the villain working a construction crane. On the other hand, Gregory Peck doesn't seem too convincing to be the hero in the film
There are parts shot on exteriors where it's supposed to be raining and no one gets wet. One of the funniest moment in the film is when Professor Pollock, who might have been tripping on acid, rides a bicycle against the highway traffic. The scenes at the London Zoo, and the last montage on the bridge are about the most exciting things in the picture.
Despite the great titles by Maurice Binder, the copy of the film we watched on cable recently, had a washed out look, which perhaps took away some of the enjoyment of watching this thriller.