Movie Monday: The Maltese Falcon (1941)

There are a few films that everyone seems to know of even if that is based off of cultural references. Humphrey Bogart was one lucky actor to be apart of a few of the movies that have made it into the cultural lexicon. Today’s Movie Monday is focused on reviewing one of those famous films! The featured film here is the 1941 version of The Maltese Falcon.

Although The Maltese Falcon was done what feels like a million times, Humphrey Bogart is arguably the main difference in what this particular story so popular among audiences. As usual, Bogart has a sultry, hard exterior that he portrays to capture just the right emotion for this film. It seems to me that this was the kind of character that came as a second nature to Bogart. He was such a natural when it came to playing anything noir!

Despite the reputation that proceeds this version of The Maltese Falcon, I am going to say something a little controversial for movie lovers. I didn’t really like this movie. Now, before I have a mob at my door, let me just say that there are a few reasons why I didn’t like this movie and those reasons fall directly on my own personality.

Firstly, I am not a huge fan of the noir film genre. Do I believe these films had a large impact on Hollywood and the film industry? Absolutely! Did noir help actresses everywhere gain a new, more empowered character to play? They sure did! But I can still appreciate everything that noir gave modern cinema while also saying that it isn’t really my genre when it comes to classic films though there are a few that I like.

Secondly, I believe The Maltese Falcon was far too long. Maybe it is because I am used to modern movies being one long action scene after another, but this nearly two hour long film feels even longer since every scene is just the characters sitting around and talking things out. I just need a little more stimulation. They should at least leave the room once in a while.

I want to highlight one of the more underrated actors of not only this time era for Hollywood, but in The Maltese Falcon. Peter Lorre was never a leading man, but he had small parts in several iconic films that are well recognized. I think Lorre was talented actor beyond the roles he was given.

Many times I watch a classic film and there Pete Lorre with his role somehow still shaping the plot. No matter how small the character, I always remember Lorre. That was the kind of actor he was.

Although I didn’t particularly love The Maltese Falcon myself, this is still a movie you should watch at least once. If for no other reason than to understand what all the hub is around this story and understand the cultural references that go along with this film. And for all of my noir fans out there, this may be one of your favorites.

Much Love,

Sarah