Ronald Neame is one of a handful of cinematographers who have tried their hand at directing, with decidedly mixed and uneven results. Neame does a pretty good job however with this rather routine thriller based upon the novel by the prolific Victor Canning.
Trevor Howard plays David Redfern, an archaeologist who stumbles across a gun-running operation and is undecided as to whether or not to expose it. He develops a soft spot for the sister of one of the gang members and when the brother is bumped off he realises that he cannot remain impartial.
At the start of the film he approaches a small hotel and one hears from within the sound of a piano playing 'Clopin Clopante'. Imagine our surprise when the actor at the keyboard turns out to be Wilfred Hyde-White! Even more bizarre casting is to follow. Peter Copley plays an Arab and if you can believe Miles Malleson as a member of the Gendarmerie...! The casting of the villians is spot on however with Walter Rilla as the reptilian Serafis and the always mesmerising Herbert Lom as his henchman. Howard of course is wonderfully watchable. His persona is that of a gentleman with 'an edge' which always makes his performances interesting and one seldom catches him 'acting'. The object of his affections here is the enchanting Anouk(without the 'Aimee') in a very early role. Most reviewers have remarked upon the disparity in their ages. That may be true but there is a chemistry there and after all, it's only a movie.
Mr. Neame's direction is solid and there are some 'noirish' touches from cinematographer Oswald Morris.
This film will not exactly have you on the edge of your seat but is guaranteed to wile away an hour and a half.
Review of Golden Salamander
