The Night of the Hunter (1955) Review in 2025
A haunting and suspenseful drama about a corrupt preacher who seeks to capture two children with a hidden treasure, set in a small town during the Great Depression.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to mature themes and some violence.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is a must-watch for fans of classic thrillers and suspenseful dramas. It's a slow-burning, atmospheric film that requires patience and attention, but rewards viewers with a thought-provoking and haunting experience.
Spoiler Alert!
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The Night of the Hunter is a 1955 classic thriller that tells the story of a corrupt preacher, Harry Powell, who marries a widow and learns about her late husband's hidden treasure map. The preacher's true intentions are revealed, and he becomes obsessed with finding the treasure, leading to a thrilling cat-and-mouse game with the children who possess the map.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is engaging and suspenseful, with a unique and intriguing plot that keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat. The themes of corruption, greed, and redemption are well-explored, making for a thought-provoking watch.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Robert Mitchum delivering a standout performance as the corrupt preacher. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Shelley Winters and Lillian Gish.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Robert Mitchum delivering a chilling performance as the corrupt preacher. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Shelley Winters and Lillian Gish.
direction9.50/10
Charles Laughton's direction is masterful, bringing a sense of tension and unease to the film. The use of shadows, lighting, and composition creates a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the story.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with a blend of black-and-white and color that adds to the film's visual appeal. The use of long takes and close-ups creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy, drawing the viewer into the world of the film.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Night of the Hunter is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, with a unique and intriguing plot, memorable characters, and stunning cinematography. The film's themes of corruption, greed, and redemption are well-explored, making for a thought-provoking watch.
Cons
The film's pacing can be slow at times, and some viewers may find the themes and violence to be too mature for their taste.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a praying man, but if I were, I'd be praying for you."
"Love is an act of endless forgiveness."
"The Lord above is a hard man, and I'm a hard man, too."
