Sleuth (1972)

Directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz. Starring Laurence Olivier, Michael Caine. [PG]

Anthony Shaffer adapted his own stage play for this juicy two-hander that sometimes gets long-winded, but when the dialogue is this sharp and the acting is this good, why carp? Olivier’s wealthy, toy-obsessed writer invites his wife’s young lover (Caine) to his handsome country manor to discuss their predicament, leading to complex mind games, a staged burglary, revenge, and perhaps, even murder. A diabolical delight with one substantial flaw—is the audience supposed to be fooled by the second act “twist” (and is the audience expected to believe the victim of the prank is dumb enough to also be fooled)? John Addison’s score, as stately as it is subversive, is a gem. Director Mankiewicz’s final film. Actor Alec Cawthorne receives an “introducing” credit here, although he does not end up appearing in the film for reasons that should not be revealed to newbies. Fans of the film should give a listen to “This Charming Man” by the Smiths.

84/100