'I See a Dark Stranger' was another film that sounded right up my alley, really loved the idea for the story and the film's genre mix sounded like the genres would go well together and not clash. Also have always really liked Deborah Kerr, two of my favourite performances of hers being in 'The King and I' and 'Black Narcissus' and wanted to see how she would fare in an early role. Trevor Howard has also been good in other things, 'Brief Encounter' is still a favourite and one of the most moving films ever made.
Although a lot of things work here, 'I See a Dark Stranger' doesn't completely succeed. It is not a waste of potential, a long way from that, but it is a case of great potential not being fully realised. Which was a little disappointing but not in a way that frustrated me massively. If you like Kerr, you'll like it. If you like the idea for the story and this mix of genres, you should mostly like it with reservations. If you like Howard, it's best to look elsewhere as to me this was not a great representation of him.
Will start with the good, which are many, quite big and outweigh the not so good. 'I See a Dark Stranger' is a very well made film visually, especially the photography which is both luminous and atmosphere. Which particularly excels in the more suspenseful scenes and how it captures Kerr, who the camera clearly loves. William Alwyn's score is typically moody without being too melodramatic while the direction is mostly very skilled until petering out at the end. The script is mostly quite sophisticated and thoughtful, with touches of witty humour.
The story generally compels, with some nice suspense, no over-obviousness and turns that aren't too convoluted. Plausibility is not always a strong suit but it is on the most part diverting and solidly paced. Kerr looks beautiful and is both feisty and dignified. The supporting cast are solid.
For all those good things, there are things that could have been better. Am going to agree with those disappointed in the final 20 minutes, which were too farcical and didn't fit with the tone of the rest of the film. Another big problem for me was Howard, who is disappointingly taciturn.
His romantic chemistry with Kerr wasn't really there either and lacked spark, and a big part of it was down to Howard and his character being underdeveloped. A shame because all the other tones are there and balanced quite well.
Concluding, well done generally but there was room for it to have been better. 7/10
