Directed by Norman Jewison with an eye for excess and indulgence, the original Thomas Chrown Affiar has kinetic cinematagraphy, and a barrage of views of late 60s Boston. The 2 stars Dunaway (as Vicki Anderson) and McQueen (title character) demand the screen and seem to be enamored with one another. There is a caper at hand but for Jewison that seems to be the back story. (spoilers alert). Writer Trustman and Jewison are most nterested in who seduces who and the vogue/beauty of its stars, and while it makes for interesting entertainment initially, the mystery becomes binary and predictable. A couple of smaller quibbles, the dune-buggy scenes wore out their welcome and McQueen and director flunked the character's cardboard laughing takes. Dunaway steals the show wholly, though her charater isn't given the reins. And Paul Burke is great in his supporting role and reminds of William Shatner a bit with his directness. Jewison and his Thomas Crown Affair excels at frolicing but don't expect deeper meaning. 6/10.
Review of The Thomas Crown Affair
