W2TCH

Beat the Devil (1953)

1953 • 1h 35m • Adventure, Comedy • NR
On September 22, 2026
#11818933
11818th by Pulse movie online
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CinemaSerf on Beat the Devil

7/10 · Dec 1, 2024

A peculiar collection of people attempting fraud get stranded in Italy after their vessel, intended for Africa, suffers mechanical failure. The premise involves four individuals supposedly traveling to sell vacuum cleaners, though their real purpose is to retrieve land they believe holds uranium deposits. While awaiting repairs, they encounter a British couple and the group of six proceeds on their way, albeit with some reservations. The plot itself doesn't amount to much. What does function effectively are the characters. Humphrey Bogart delivers a strong performance as a morally questionable but intelligent counterpart to Robert Morley’s superb portrayal – both actors benefit from the clever dialogue by Truman Capote and John Huston’s direction. Peter Lorre, too, consistently elevates even minor moments; his expressions and gestures convey volumes without needing explanation. Gina Lollobrigida, in my opinion, hasn't often appeared in worthwhile films. She is undeniably glamorous and alluring, but I don't see her as particularly skilled – and here she contributes very little, unlike Jennifer Jones ("Mrs. Chelm"), whose storytelling abilities could easily rival Enid Blyton’s. The film loses some momentum toward its unusual conclusion, yet it remains a well-organized and absorbing adventure with a touch of romance.

Source on TMDB