Movie Moment: The Quiet American
[ Saw it Thursday; this review is late. ]
A quietly good film set in Vietnam during the conflict, just as France is nearing the end of its part in the war. Based upon Graham Greene’s novel, the central character is played by Michael Caine.
As usual, Caine is the consummate pro. It’s the title character, played by Brendan Fraser, who is more troubling. I can’t think of a Fraser character that I’ve ever liked without reservations, and sadly this is no exception.
That’s certainly not to say he drags down the picture. The rest of the film is too strong to be fatally wounded. Even with Mr. Fraser, The Quiet American is something worth watching, especially in times like these.