Maltese Falcon

They did a great job of perfectly remastering this classic film into High Definition! Of course the movie itself is one of Bogart’s best performances. If you enjoy suspenseful WHO DONE ITS, this classic Detective Movie is a must. I highly recommend it.

FORMAT: Blu-Ray UPC: 8-83929-11825-0 RELEASED: 2010-10-05TITLE: The Maltese Falcon (1941) • NR • 1:40:32 Humphrey Bogart, Mary Astor, Peter Lorre, Sydney Greenstreet John Huston (Director) The movie that many film historians consider to be the very first example of "film noir"! (I personally DON'T agree with that assessment, as there are, in my opinion, MANY earlier examples of film noir — such as, Bogie's own  Dead End  from 1937.) Be that as it may, this is still an EXCELLENT movie — with its collection of odd-ball and/or duplicitous characters, with their various (and, nefarious) motivations, all plotting against one another in order to achieve some nebulous goal! This is the movie that cemented Humphrey Bogart as a superstar actor — and, it also changed John Huston from an erstwhile highly-respected screenwriter (and VERY small-time actor, on the side) into a VERY highly-respected screenwriter, and a MUCH sought-after director (with a slightly-more-frequent bit playing acting career, on the side). Of the MANY great things about this movie, one of the most important, in my opinion, is that EVERYBODY is perfectly cast — and, consequently, EVERY performance is pitch-perfect (Peter Lorre and Sydney Greenstreet, speaking of just two great examples of that aforementioned perfect casting, very nearly steal the movie). Another important aspect of this movie is its brilliant dialog — sometimes, while re-watching this movie, for the who-knows-how-many-time, I forget about following the plot and just absorb the wordplay between the characters (with the many snide remarks and sly innuendos). HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. See the other reviews for more detail and/or other opinions regarding the plot of the movie.VIDEO: 1.37:1 • B&W • 1080p • VC-1 (28.6 Mbps) Let's get the bad news out of the way off the top: Those of you that have seen Warners' glorious blu-ray presentation of  Casablanca (1942) , and expect that SAME level of visual presentation here, with this release of "The Maltese Falcon" will be disappointed — but, only slightly so. While this movie's image has MANY of the same VERY positive visual attributes as "Casablanca" (namely: excellent contrast and gray-scale, great sharpness and detail, and a total (or, nearly so) absence of artifacts such as black specks, white dots, hair-lines or dropped frames), it also has some negative visual attributes of its own — that were non-existent (or, nearly so) in "Casablanca" (namely: a pervasive, ever-so-slight softness in MANY scenes, and a very few scenes that were overly "contrasty", with very limited gray-scale [yes, I know that film noir is known for its stark, high-contrast cinematography, but these scenes didn't match the appearance of the rest of the movie, and, further, look like they may have originated from less-than-pristine source elements]). OK, that's the "bad" news. Now, for the "good" news: This is still an EXCELLENT transfer to blu-ray. As a person who has owned this movie first on VHS tape and then later on Laser Disc, before purchasing this blu-ray version, I can tell you that this version is a visual revelation, and it looks FANTASTIC! Only a hyper-picky, so-called "videophile" could possibly have a "reason" to condemn the picture quality of this release — the rest of us will simply count our blessings and enjoy the show.AUDIO: DTS-HD Master Audio Mono (48 KHz, 24-bit) Again, just like with the audio presentation of "Casablanca", the fine sound engineers at Warner Home Video have done extensive clean-up work on the film's soundtrack, because there are no pops, bumps or hiss to speak of. Also, the dialog is very clear and natural sounding, with all voices being clearly defined and easily understood. However, the transfer's dynamic range is fairly limited, and there isn't any deep bass nor any top-end to speak of (though, the musical score does sound better than one would expect under the circumstances). Otherwise, considering the age of the source elements and the fact that this is a monophonic, dialog-driven movie from the early 1940s, this film's soundtrack has VERY good sound quality.EXTRAS: Commentary (by Bogart biographer Eric Lax) 'Making Of' Video (The Maltese Falcon: One Magnificent Bird [SD]) Becoming Attractions: The Trailers of Humphrey Bogart [SD] Warner Night at the Movies (interactive featurette [SD]) Gag Reel/Bloopers (Breakdowns of 1941 [SD]) Makeup Tests [SD] Trailers ('The Maltese Falcon' and 'Satan Met a Lady') Three Radio Show Adaptations of 'The Maltese Falcon' [SD = Standard Definition] None of the extras were reviewed.

I read the book 1st; over and over on Audible (plug for Audible) and although the movie was good, the book was better. Chapter 13 was my favorite where the existence of the Maltese Falcon is explained.

Right next to Casablanca this is arguably his best film about a jewel encrusted trinket stolen by pirates that surrounds murder in the city. I will have to watch this twice to really get the picture as it was very slow compared to today's dramas. I'm glad I watched it!

If you love old films or film noir, this one is a must. You get not only the classic film, but two earlier versions on a second disk--really fun to compare them. If you don't have a copy, I recommend getting the novel, too. Lots to talk about in comparing book and adaptations. Beware of lending it two your friends: I had to buy another one after I lent it out and didn't get it back--you'll understand why. Enjoy: story, performances, and cinematography are all great.

Come on, people, look at the cast. Next, check out the story. Done those two simple things? Good!All you need to know is that it's The Maltese Falcon.If you haven't watched it yet, you'll fall in love with it. This is a movie where the sum of all its parts are greater than the whole. Those that have seen it, will probably watch it as part of their "classics" rotation.

This classic movie from 1941 is a great Film Noir in black and white. It's based on the 1930s book by Dashiell Hammett. There are spoilers in this review, so be warned.Sam Spade is a San Francisco detective in 1928 that loves to drink whiskey. His partner, Archer, is knocked off almost immediately, working on a case. It turns out Sam is sleeping with Archer's wife. She really loves him, and was trying to divorce Archer to be with him. He dismisses her casually once she is "free". Sam also keeps his hand on his secretary's knee while she sits on his desk and lights his cigarette for him. She's the dutiful sweet-but-ditzy slave who does anything he wants without question. She even puts up his new girlfriend, Brigid for a few days in her own home. Sam's building an entire harem here.That's only the beginning.The core of the problem is a gold Maltese Falcon - tracing back to the Knights Templar many centuries ago. A number of double crossers are trying to get their hands on the gold. This includes Mary Astor who plays Brigid Wonderley / LeBlanc / O'Shaughnessey the multi-named woman. This is made fun of beautifully in the spoof "without a clue".I love the characters in this story. Lorre is the well heeled gardenia-smelling Cairo. Brigid is a woman who loves to play roles to get what she wants. You've got a Fat Man who serves Sam whiskey each time they chat. Through it all waltzes Sam, who is sharp enough to change his attitude to suit the situation. He tells the DA that he knows he's under suspicion - and that the only way he sees to clear his name is to tie up the events and bring in the murderers all identified.I love some of the quotes in here - "The cheaper the crook - the gaudier the patter", he says after the gunner makes a snide remark. Sam shows he can move in any circle - he goes up against the police, harasses the lowly gunners and can discuss issues with the educated as well. He can hold off the approaches of sexy women and keep a semi-clear mind.On the other hand, for all his perfection, he tends to use the people around him without much concern. I love how he shakes up his secretary when she's about to pass out. None of that silly female behavior from her. He ditches the grieving widow, abandoning her completely even though she was ready to get divorced to be with him. The secretary has all sorts of wild demands made on her. "You're a good man, sister" he says to his secretary while abandoning her with a corpse. What's that mean, that she's useful, where a "normal" woman is not? Jeez :)That's not to say that anybody in this story is a real "good guy". You'd think his love interest might be - but Brigid lies pretty much every second, with lies on lies on lies. Even when she says she's telling the truth, she's lying again. Sam is wise to it and turns her over to the police. "I don't care who loves who, I'm not playing the sap ... you killed Miles, and you're going over for it" he says. He gives his famous speech about having to do what's right.I like how they show her "behind bars" as she gets into the elevator - and how he refuses to go with her. He takes his own path, with the "stuff dreams are made of" in his hands. As he explains, he might grieve for a few days, but he'll be right back to his cocky self after that. She made bad choices and will live with them. He made all the right choices, is quite happy with his conscience, and heck, he still has 2 women waiting for him.

One of Bogie's best movies.

A no-nonsense tough as nails detective of the 40's finds himself caught up in a web of lies and deceit when his partner is murdered and a raft of outlandish characters appear to complicate matters.Everybody winds up searching for the jewel encrusted falcon of the title and much double crossing and stabbing of backs ensues.The story though plays second fiddle to a collection of actors who bring their characters to sparkling, seedy, life. Bogart is memorably iconic as Sam Spade, Mourning the recent death of his partner he casually tells his secretary to have the partners name scratched off the office doors & windows and to replace it with "Samuel Spade" instead. His is the focal character around which all others orbit, tough, ruthless and invariably working out a way to escape trouble he forever changed the film hero into something far darker and less morally reliable than filmgoers had been previously used to.But Bogart was superbly supported by some unforgettable performances, Peter Lorre's Mr.Cairo slithers around the story and never really declares for one side or the other, Mary Astor's seemingly vulnerable heroin turning into something far harder and ruthless and the unforgettable Sidney Greenstreet, all affectation and manners barely covering a towering monster of a man who knows no barriers to his greed.This is film noir at the height of it's powers and firing on all cylinders, lighting, camerawork, styles and dialogue all combining to make a masterpiece.This edition is a suitable tribute with 3 versions of the original hammett story including one with Bette Davis.There are a whole load of extras including cartoons and original trailers and documentaries. In truth the extras are fine and it's of interest to see the 2 other pre-Houston versions but it's the main feature that matters here and so what is wanted is some restoration of the original print. That's exactly what we get with a shimmering picture that is superbly cleaned up and as clear as a bell, sound too is given the once over and although surround isn't neccessary the dialogue is pin sharp and well centered.All in all this is as good a package as you could hope for and is a fitting release for a hugely enjoyable and influential film, noir, Houston and Bogart were a dynamite combination and watching this remastered version is a real smack to the senses and as Spade puts it " when you're slapped you'll stay slapped and like it!"

Humphrey Bogart is on top form in this John Huston-directed classic film from 1941.The age of the film is not really a factor with this new Special Edition, as the restored picture and sound are faultless and catapult the action onto the screen for maximum enjoyment.The plot centres on the quest to obtain an elusive statuette (as named in the title of the film), but the item is really a 'MacGuffin' since the story is played-out to involve all the matters associated with getting it, rather than the Maltese Falcon itself being significant.This allows the detective Sam Spade character played by Bogart to dominate the film, and the quality of his performance clearly demonstrates why he subsequently rose to stardom. He is simply magnificent and portrays all the well-known mannerisms (aggression, compassion, humour) he is famed for.The film speeds along very quickly, with barely a pause for breath, and there are a number of significant scenes involving action and confrontation to raise the tempo higher-still.Aside from the fantastic restored picture/image, this DVD issue is notable for the inclusion of many worthwhile extras including a commentary, documentaries and those all-important trailers from that era (which are so often hilarious compared to what we are used to with modern films !).This is easily a 'Top 10' movie and an essential acquisition.

One of the first (and best) films noir, the Maltese Falcon is gritty and fast paced with sharp, rapid-fire dialogue and uncompromisingly delivered, ruthless characters who seem to know no bounds in order to get what they want. Not even Humphrey Bogart's excellent depiction of Sam Spade can be seen as a conventional hero, making this a shockingly dark picture to be made by a Hollywood studio.The genius of this is that the movie and particularly Bogart's Sam Spade always seem to be one step ahead of the audience and while we struggle with the detail of the plot, it is reassuring to see that Spade never at any time loses control, his confidence often brimming over with audacious outbursts of violence that provide a source of entertainment and admiration to other key characters.A masterstroke of casting is also the lead female role played by Mary Astor, who a few years earlier had her career ruined by a real life sex scandal. Astor brings some of that real life darkness to the role.With beautiful hard-lit cinematography, a terrific supporting cast and well planned scenes, this is a true classic at a bargain price.

When I think of this film I don't immediately think of Humphrey Bogart I'm pleased to say. For some perhaps obvious reason the small statue comes into my mind followed by "the fat man", Sidney Greenstreet then Peter Lorre. Everyone knows that George Raft was offered the role of Sam Spade in this film before Bogart because Raft was at the time the BIGGER NAME but for reasons known only to himself he turned the part down.He also declined the part Bogart had in Casablanca!Sam Spades partner is murdered by person or persons unknown and he is grilled by the cops-Ward Bond later to play in early TV's Wagon Train, and Barton Maclane who roughs him up a little. Having got over this Bogart needs to find the culprit for the murder when suddenly beautiful Mary Astor enters into the equation with a story about a priceless statuette and the mysterious "fat-man".Can she be trusted? Will Sam Spade find the murderer and the statue? WillSam be played as the fall-guy? Elisha Cook Jr.also stars in an early role.Directed by the GREAT John Huston

What can I say about this film that has not been said before? It's wonderful and every character has a very deep dark side and also a bit of comedy!Humphrey Bogart is wonderful in it as always and every other actor is also as good.I think its one of the best films ever made!