Thomas’s review published on Letterboxd:
I find it funny that I watched all the different versions of this story in the opposite chronological order. First the outstanding The Simpsons episode “Cape Feare” (1993), then the Martin Scorsese remake from 1991, and now the original film from 1962. I guess now I have to read the novel.
“Cape Fear” is a topnotch film noir psychological thriller with a thrilling and quite terrifying “what would I do?” premise that touches upon revenge, self-protection, and the limits of the justice system. The movie follows a unique cat and mouse game between protagonist and antagonist and has many similarities with a Hitchcock thriller, yet it´s grittier and nastier. The main reason for this is Robert Mitchum´s portrayal of Max Cady, who has to be one of the creepiest and most menacing villains in cinema. I loved Robert De Niro´s take on the character in the Scorsese remake, but Mitchum´s towering performance remains unmatched. I also have to praise the excellent direction, which manages to maintain high tension even during long sequences. Especially the final act in the swamp is anxiety inducing (it´s also a great setting for a showdown). Then also add the beautiful shot composition, atmospheric lighting, and a great Bernard Herrmann score and you have an all-around fantastic thriller.
