Martin Balsam

The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974) Review

The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974) Review

RATING: (3.5 STARS) There’s something about a film knowing exactly what it is and, just as importantly, exactly what it isn’t. The Taking of Pelham One Two Three is a grimy 70s thriller – nothing more, nothing less. But because it doesn’t try to do too much, it can focus on trying to be the […]

12 Angry Men Review

12 Angry Men Review

RATING: (4 STARS) As far as directorial debuts are concerned few are as good as Sidney Lumet’s 12 Angry Men. Hell, few films period are as good as 12 Angry Men. Though the action is limited to one small, hot room, the film is smart, taut, and exciting from start to finish. The word strong […]

Murder on the Orient Express Review

Murder on the Orient Express Review

RATING: (4 STARS) Sidney Lumet has been directing exceptional films for over 50 years. With masterpieces like “12 Angry Men” (1957) and Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead (2007) on his resume, there are many candidates for his greatest film. For me, one of his best has to be 1974’s “Murder on the Orient Express.” […]

All the President’s Men Review

All the President’s Men Review

RATING: (3.5 STARS) We all know the story. President Richard M. Nixon and “all of his men” conspired to bug the offices of the Democratic National Committee at the Watergate Hotel, operated a secret slush fund within the White House, and obstructed justice during the investigation. Alan J. Pakula’s “All the President’s Men” is the […]

Psycho Review

Psycho Review

RATING: (4 STARS) Alfred Hitchcock is usually regarded as one of film’s most talented directors. With a resume as strong as his, it’s hard to argue. “Vertigo,” “Rear Window,” “North by Northwest,” “Rebecca,” “Strangers on a Train,” “The Birds.” The list goes on and on. I haven’t seen all of Sir Alfred’s films (I haven’t […]