The Island Cinephile

The Prize: An Average Watch

The Prize has a homogenous quality to many of the films produced by Alfred Hitchcock. Directed by Mark Robson, this visual vehicle presents similar themes found within his films like the use of suspense, blonde women, and sexual themes. 

With the screenplay written by Ernest Lehman, a bit offbeat the film uses much more humor to give more of a lighthearted feel than a deeply suspenseful one. The stakes are not as high for Newman’s character, because he is knowledgeable, charismatic, and has the ability to get out of unique situations – no matter how incredible.  

Elke Sommer as the love interest works because Newman presents palpable chemistry, probably even with a piece of toast. The supporting characters did not detract from the work of the main characters.  

Most notably, Diane Baker’s performance as our antagonist was unexpected yet not unwelcome. Heavily inspired by the work of Hitchcock, there were unexpected twists within but there still lacked a true sense of impending danger as it usually does in one of his films.  

The production quality is reasonable for the time it was produced, though some scenes may not hold up well today. The Prize was entertaining, but not sure if it warrants a re-watch. 

Watch trailer for The Prize.