Review of Gun Crazy

Gun Crazy (1950)
6/10
Gone crazy
1 June 2017
A man obsessed with guns falls in love with a reckless carnival sharp-shooter, but her ambitions draw him to the dark side.

Moralizing tale of a crime spree, with good performances but an uninspired story. The male character's background is shown in a prologue and we can pretty much piece his motivations together, but the female character is a mystery who only once lets slip a tidbit from her past so we can form an idea of how she got this way. The depravity is contained, not just because we're encouraged to take the view of the law enforcers, but also because the relationship is shown in cute close-ups without a hint of savagery. The tension does mount as the net tightens, but I got a bit tired toward the end of what is a short run time.

Most interesting element is the POV camera during a long take that tells the story of a heist - all from a fixed point behind the driver of the getaway car, with the only flaw an unconvincing run-in with a cop.

Music is emotional but not too intrusive for a 1950s production. Direction and photography had their moments.

Overall: well told story, but too tame.
3 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink

Recently Viewed