Things Ian Watches: THE WAGES OF FEAR

1953, dir. Henri-Georges Clouzot

This movie seems to have a lot going against it at first glance. It’s French, from the early 50s, and its black and white.  I know what you're thinking, total snoozefest. But wait! It actually delivers tons of ownage at a rapid pace.

The setup is simple: For some quick cash, four morally suspect men have to transport two trucks full of nitro glycerin through the South American wilderness. One false move, and explosions happen all over the place. Shockingly, the roads are not well-maintained whatsoever, so it’s a treacherous journey with danger at every turn. Once the film finally gets going (it takes an hour for them to get into the trucks), it’s incredibly suspenseful. The classic themes revolving around the evils men do for money are handled well, especially in the downbeat and thought-provoking ending.

The lead actor is one of the suavest dudes I’ve ever seen, Yves Montand. He is showing of that bare chest and doesn’t care who knows it! Did all guys look this cool in the 50’s? From watching old movies, it sort of seems that way. Wikipedia tells me he was also a internationally renowned crooner, which makes sense. Anyways, his character decides getting some quick cash and risking his life are more important than hanging out with his hot barmaid girlfriend in town. Probably not the decision I would make. Moral of the story is: Money = Bad. Spicy Latina ladies = Good!

By the way, in 1977 this film was remade as SORCERER, which is considered one of the biggest flops of all time – it opened to terrible reviews a week after Star Wars, so probably about eight people saw it. It is infamous for ruining the career of excellent  director William Friedken (THE EXORCIST, THE FRENCH CONNECTION). However, I think the film is superb and well worth your time. Adding gritty seventies violence, international intrigue, and Roy Scheider to any old movie is usually a great idea in my opinion.

I love you Roy Scheider!