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The Snows of Kilamanjiro is a moderately touching story of a writer (Peck), who, close to death in Africa, tells his neglected wife of his past love (Gardner), who he can't seem to forget.
The tone of the film is sometimes a tad over dramatic and the first time in Africa shows some technically bad shots of the animals and the rivers. However, if we look at this film from a technical aspect, it has a lot to recommend. I loved the colours in the film, especially the blues of the skies. They are bright and filled me with nostalgia.
Furthermore, the way the story is told is great. We are told of Peck's love life through a series of flashbacks. The actual tale itself is drawn out, but some moments make it worth the ride. The tragedy of Peck's character is one many people can relate to; the artist pursues his "art", but neglects the emotions he speaks so highly of.
Peck and Gardner are great as the leading roles. Peck sometimes mumbles his lines, but that is part and parcel of his charm in the film. Susan Hayward is great as the neglected wife.
This film does have moments of brilliance. It has some heart breaking moments, but it is fleshed out by some un-believable events and bum choices by the director. I couldn't help but feel that the THEMES (capital letters, everyone), were slapped on a little too heavily sometimes. Sure, we can be shown reasons of Harry's tragic downfall, but does it have to be spelt out for us? I think the director should have left some of the thoughts and memories for the audience to think of.
Still, a good film, with wonderful colour and some great tear-jerker moments. Worth a watch.
score 6/10
OllieZ 29 November 2006
Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw1533205/ |
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28-2-2021 00:05:17