I was in the mood for some 1970s neo-noir and this fit the bill. Harper was a 1960s private eye flick starring Paul Newman as Lew Harper, a character from a series of Ross Macdonald novels. I saw it awhile back and I remember it intentionally reviving the 1940s Humphrey Bogart PI mould for a bright Californian version with Newman’s blue-eyed charisma. The follow up, The Drowning Pool (1975) has Newman return to the character of Harper, a little older but still taunt and charismatic, arriving in New Orleans to investigate a blackmail plot against an old flame (Joanne Woodward). In the mix are a rebellious teen (Melanie Griffith), a suspicious limo driver (Andy Robinson), a sleazy oil baron (Murray Hamilton), and a pair of hard headed cops (Richard Jaeckel and Anthony Franciosa). The film enjoys taking in the New Orleans atmosphere (yes, there is a scene with a fan boat) but it’s not as over the top as something like Live And Let Die. There are a few set pieces but it’s not really action packed or about the violence, and more about Newman coolly bouncing off situations and suspects with irreverence and style. While not an essential 1970s noir like The Long Goodbye or Night Moves, I enjoyed it. Basically on the strength of hanging out with Newman as he investigates in his impeccable suit and Raybans, coasting on wry charm. The other great part of the film I loved was Gordon Willis’ cinematography, the prince of darkness himself (of The Godfather films and All The President’s Men). Looking at contemporary films, how they look, particularly on HD smart TVs, all shiny and bright and clear. Then to compare it to the artistry of dimly lit interiors of this film and how Willis makes the images rich and interesting (helps that it is an HD transfer rather than a VHS tape where you probably wouldn’t be able to see a thing). Anyway, The Drowning Pool was a fun time. Directed by Stuart Rosenberg (of Cool Hand Luke and The Pope Of Greenwich Village). Rented on iTunes. Recommended.
VHS Tracking 