After much searching (okay, after a brief Google search) I found a few recipes I thought would be good. Sam graciously offered to make the apple strudel (which turned out great despite his initial misgivings and a recipe that makes Primer seem logical and straightforward) and I tackled the Black Tea Chocolate Cake. It also turned out okay, if a little dry. I would definitely cut the baking time down in the future. And cut out the hazelnuts. And add a glaze or icing. But I generally like my dessert really sweet. Anyway, on to the movie...
I was somewhat surprised how much I like this movie. The plot was relatively simple. A writer arrives in Vienna to find the friend he was supposed to stay with has been killed in a mysterious car crash. The rest of the movie involves the writer trying to find out what happened. The characters are interesting, and you're never really sure who is the good guy and who is not, which I always appreciate. The thing that stood out for me though was the cinematography. The play of light and shadow, and the all of the attached symbolism, was masterfully composed. The chase scene in the sewers at the end was particularly amazing. I think the way the camera was utilized would not have worked in a color film. I was also somewhat surprised to see how modern Orson Welles acting style was. I've not seen him in anything (which is a travesty, I know, you don't have to tell me), and he was only in a small part of this one, but I was still struck. Not only the lighting, but the shots of bombed-out areas contrasted with the loft architecture of the city was a commentary on the characters' situation and personalities. Truly an interesting movie.
Every time I see an older, little-known movie like this one, a small part of me wonders what a remake would be like. I can imagine this one being much more action-packed or suspenseful. They'd get some young, attractive actors for the lead roles. Actually, I think it would be pretty good. But I can almost guarantee it would not be as visually striking. I don't think there are too many directors these days that can do so much with so little.
Overall, the evening was a success. I give the movie a definite B+.
