Returned earlier this year to watching more classic/golden era films. Especially film noirs, mystery thrillers and silent film. There are always two common reasons for seeing any film or television series for this reviewer. One is if the premise sounds promising, 'Walk Softly Stranger' applies here. The other is if there is a talented cast, again this applies here, having seen Joseph Cotten and Spring Byington in other things and liking their work. The genre also appeals.
'Walk Softly Stranger' is another one of those recent discoveries long put in my watchlist but only got round to watching recently. It's another one that left me mostly impressed if not jumping out of my chair in rapture. For what it is, it is well done and executes almost all its components more than solidly. But it also misses out on having the extra something. Definitely recommended and another film that doesn't deserve its seldom seen status, just not quite an essential.
It is a long way from perfect. Did feel that it is melodramatically scripted at times, especially later on, and that it could have done with more momentum.
There are not an awful lot of surprise and the suspense isn't as strong in the final act. Coming off worst is the ending, which is very mawkish and completely at odds with the rest of the film (pretty much too much like it was lifted out of another).
However, what particularly makes 'Walk Softly Stranger' is the acting, which is very good. Cotten is beautifully restrained and amiable and Byington is solid support in a type of role she always played well. Best of all is poignant, sympathetic Alida Valli as the most fleshed out character that goes from one main personality to another as the character evolves seamlessly and gains our sympathy from start to finish.
It is filmed with a good sense of slick style and moody atmosphere and is crisply directed. The music and sound quality don't get over-bearing and suit the mood very well. The script is tight and gritty as ought and the story compels and has the right amount of intricacy. Some nice tension too and while the drama is rather subdued it did have me invested.
Overall, good but not great. 7/10.
