The Big Clock

The Big Clock stars Ray Milland as George Stroud, a successful newsman who is forced to subvert his own publication’s murder investigation after it becomes clear that he’s being set up to take the fall. Directed by John Farrow, The Big Clock generally comes off as a prototypical effort from within the film noir genre – yet there’s no denying that the movie possesses a surprisingly contemporary vibe. The brisk pace and darkly comedic script certainly go a long way towards cementing this feeling, while Milland effectively steps into the shoes of an increasingly frantic figure (and Farrow’s stylish direction doesn’t hurt, either). Charles Laughton delivers a scene-stealing performance as George’s sinister boss, infusing the character with a whole host of oddball quirks and ticks (eg he does this weird, Dr. Evil-esque thing with his little finger). And though saddled with an overlong and repetitive third act, The Big Clock recovers in its final minutes for a thoroughly thrilling conclusion – complete with one of the more memorable deaths in a film of this sort.

*** out of ****