Frank Sinatra's '60s Political Thriller Is a Streaming Gem
In the vast landscape of streaming services, Tubi stands out as a hidden gem, offering a diverse range of films that often fly under the radar. Among its extensive catalog, one standout movie is the 1962 psychological thriller, 'The Manchurian Candidate,' starring the legendary Frank Sinatra. This film, a dark and satirical take on Cold War paranoia, is not only a must-watch for movie enthusiasts but also a testament to Sinatra's versatility as an actor and performer.
Sinatra's journey to stardom was not without its challenges. By the time he delivered his iconic performances in the 1960s, he had already faced a career crisis in the early 1950s. Accusations of being a communist sympathizer took a toll on his popularity, but a series of remarkable roles helped him reclaim his place in the spotlight. His portrayal of Private Angelo Maggio in 'From Here to Eternity' earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and he followed this success with a string of hit records, including 'Songs for Young Lovers' with Nelson Riddle.
However, it was his role in 'The Manchurian Candidate' that solidified Sinatra's status as a versatile artist. The film, directed by John Frankenheimer and adapted from Richard Condon's novel, explores the dark underbelly of McCarthyism and the societal paranoia it fostered. Sinatra plays U.S. Army Major Bennett Marco, who, along with Sergeant Raymond Shaw (Lawrence Harvey), is captured by Soviet and Chinese soldiers during the Korean War. The pair are subjected to brainwashing, with Shaw becoming a sleeper agent, ready to be triggered by the Queen of Diamonds in a game of solitaire.
The film's narrative takes a twist as Shaw returns to the United States, hailed as a war hero, while Marco is haunted by nightmares of Shaw's violent past. The real plot unfolds as Shaw's mother, Eleanor Shaw Iselin (Angela Lansbury), a cunning and ruthless character, uses her son to manipulate her way into the presidency. Sinatra's Marco finds himself in a race against time to deprogram Shaw before he commits an act that could have catastrophic consequences.
'The Manchurian Candidate' is not just a thrilling ride; it's a satirical commentary on the era's political climate. Released during the Cuban Missile Crisis and a year before the assassination of John F. Kennedy, the film's plot of a communist conspiracy and presidential assassination was eerily prescient. Despite its dark themes, the film is also meant to be funny, as George Axelrod, the screenwriter, noted. This blend of suspense and humor makes the film a unique and engaging watch.
The film's success was evident in its critical acclaim and commercial performance. It was nominated for two Academy Awards, with Angela Lansbury receiving a Best Supporting Actress nomination. The film's budget of $2.2 million resulted in a gross of $3.3 million, and the 1988 re-release further boosted its total gross to $7.7 million. Critics, including Roger Ebert, praised its bold storytelling and the way it kept the audience on the edge of their seats. Today, it boasts an impressive 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 68 reviews.
In conclusion, 'The Manchurian Candidate' is a streaming gem that deserves a place in every movie lover's watchlist. With its blend of suspense, satire, and powerful performances, it remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences. So, if you're looking for a thought-provoking and entertaining film, look no further than Tubi, where you can stream this masterpiece for free.
