I finally watched this classic murder mystery/game/puzzle film from the 1970's last night. Written by Anthony Perkins (of Psycho fame) and Stephen Sondheim (the king of musical theater in the USA), this film involves 7 people. James Coburn invites six others to a week-long vacation on his yacht off the South of France. Once there, his guests are forced to play an elaborate game in which they are supposed to learn the secrets of the other guests/players. As one would expect in this kind of thing, a murder occurs, and one is soon wondering just how many games are going on simultaneously.
It's beautifully and effectively shot, and includes a classic 1970's cast. Coburn's guests are played by Richard Benjamin, Dyan Cannon, James Mason, Ian McShane, Raquel Welch and Joan Hackett. The script is intricate, and it really does keep you guessing - but at the same time it doesn't exactly cheat. There's one thing that struck me as pretty unlikely. But if you pay careful attention, you may be able to figure out the game(s). So if are into solving these kinds of puzzles, or just want a classic drawing-room (or secluded yacht, in this case) mystery to divert you for two hours, this might be something you'd enjoy.
Posted by armand at August 23, 2005 12:35 PM | TrackBack | Posted to Movies