"Cape Fear" (1962) Film Screening

This psychological neo-noir horror thriller, directed by J. Lee Thompson, features Robert Mitchum in the creepiest role of his career—an even more sinister portrayal than the serial killer he played in 1955’s The Night of the Hunter. Mitchum sinks his laidback teeth into the role of convicted, unreformed rapist Max Cady who, upon release from prison, stalks the man who helped put him behind bars—upstanding, idealistic lawyer Sam Bowden (Gregory Peck). Cady threatens Bowden’s family making it clear that he intends to inflict physical and sexual violence on Bowden’s teenage daughter. Cady is so shrewd that none of his interactions with Bowden or the family violate any laws, resulting in the respected lawyer growing increasingly emasculated and desperate. Soon, the law-loving Bowden is contemplating things he would never have dreamed of before. This is an intense movie that features two perfectly cast leads squaring off against each other, rich, deep-focus black and white cinematography, a fascinating moral conundrum, and surprisingly astute commentary on rape culture.

Screening with Cape Fear (1991) as part of the Somerville Theatre's Great Remakes series. 

Tickets:
$16 single feature / $18 double feature

Location: Somerville Theatre