The Quiet American (1958)

It is no Casablanca, but The Quiet American (1958) feels similar. A cynical and noncommittal British journalist (Fowler) loves a Vietnamese woman (Phuong), who he cannot wed, and who promptly becomes the romantic target of The American (no name given). Fowler is so fair-minded that he gives the American equal opportunity to make his case to Phuong before the two men demand that she choose between them. Her choice is gradually revealed as the two men go about the individual purposes for why they are stationed in Vietnam. Fowler, for his part, may have misread the character of the American, who seems brash and shallow but over time proves that he may be a match for the high-minded but increasingly petty journalist. Their first debate, and brush with death, comes in a roadside guard tower. Later, after Fowler's extended investigation by the police detective (who has a more laser-like focus than "round up the usual suspects"), we begin to understand what a gap exists between Fowler's words, emotions, and actions. It is true the American was never quiet while he had the chance to talk; this movie starts with the ending, and then rewinds the tale to see how what happened came to be, and why. The script is intelligent (though the politics from the novel are gauzed over); I appreciated the analysis and repartee. Enjoy! 4 stars. (6-7-2016)