Retro Film Review: The Manchurian Candidate (1962)

There are occasions when history can play cruel tricks on films. Some titles destined for greatness may fade into insignificance due to trivial events that render them irrelevant to the public. However, there are also instances where films achieve immortality unexpectedly. The Manchurian Candidate, a 1962 political thriller directed by John Frankenheimer, is a prime example of such a film.

The plot, based on the novel by Richard Condon, unfolds in 1952 during the Korean War. A small American unit, led by Captain Bennett Marco (portrayed by Frank Sinatra), falls into an ambush orchestrated by the treacherous guide/interpreter Chunjin (played by Henry Silva). Captured by a Soviet elite unit, Marco and his men are transported to Manchuria and subjected to three days of intense brainwashing. They are implanted with false memories of a heroic escape, during which the unpopular Staff Sergeant Raymond Shaw (portrayed by Laurence Harvey) displayed unexpected bravery, earning him the Congressional Medal of Honor. Shaw's domineering mother (played by Angela Lansbury) and her husband, the right-wing Senator John Iselin (portrayed by James Gregory), attempt to exploit this medal for their political ambitions, but Shaw refuses to cooperate. Two years later, Marco and the other survivors are haunted by nightmares. Marco, now a major working in military intelligence, suspects that Shaw has been brainwashed into becoming a sleeper assassin for the Communist bloc.

The Manchurian Candidate now holds a prestigious status as a classic of the 1960s and one of Hollywood's standout political thrillers. It stands as a defining work in John Frankenheimer's filmography, establishing him as a master of the genre.

The film lives up to its reputation to a considerable extent. Frankenheimer, an early pioneer in television directing, showcases his innovative techniques and talent in this film. A standout example is the gripping and unsettling scene that explains the brainwashing process, setting a tone for the film's pace and engaging the audience with its diverse and intriguing characters. The concluding scene, presented in a documentary style, enhances the film's impact by aiding the audience in suspending disbelief.

The exceptional acting in the film also contributes to its success. Frank Sinatra brings a relatable quality to his character, grounding the complex plot through his perspective. Angela Lansbury delivers a powerful performance as the villainous mother, balancing on the edge of intensity without crossing into overacting. Laurence Harvey, though challenged by his British accent in an American role, manages the complexity of his character effectively. Janet Leigh, in a smaller role, adds a touch of classic Hollywood glamour to the film.

While The Manchurian Candidate is a strong film, it reflects the era in which it was made, with elements of its intricate plot potentially puzzling to those unfamiliar with Cold War America. George Axelrod's script can be interpreted as a response from liberal Hollywood to the conservative rhetoric and paranoia of the McCarthy era. The film's exploration of these themes, while at times heavy-handed, underscores the tensions of the time and the impact on democratic values.

Despite its complex plot, The Manchurian Candidate rises above average due to its strong performances and skilled direction. The film's enduring status as a classic can be attributed in part to its eerie parallels with the Kennedy assassination, which resonated deeply with American audiences. Even when viewed outside its historical context, the film remains a compelling piece of cinema that prompts reflection and warrants recommendation.

RATING: 7/10 (+++)

(Note: Original version of the review is available here.)

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