Romulus/Santana. Director John Huston; Screenplay John Huston, Anthony Veiller, Peter Viertel, Truman Capote; Camera Oswald Morris; Editor Ralph Kemplen; Music Franco Mannino; Art Director Wilfrid Shingleton
Humphrey Bogart
Jennifer Jones
Gina Lollobrigida
Robert Morley
Peter Lorre
Edward Underdown
In an easy sort of way, the story [from a novel by James Helvick] describes the adventures of a bunch of uranium exploiteers who want to get hold of some valuable land in Africa. While they're waiting for a passage from Italy, their go-between (Humphrey Bogart) becomes involved with a young couple, played by Jennifer Jones and Edward Underdown. The way in which they get done out of their property, and the potential millions that go with it, provides the background for all the action.
All the exteriors were lensed on location in Italy, with fine matching work at Shepperton Studios. There are carefully timed laughs in the script as well as intended comedy situations that misfire. The best gag is derived from Bogart's interview with an Arab bigwig who provides a slow boat to Africa in exchange for a promised introduction to Rita Hayworth.
Under John Huston's stylish direction a fine acting standard is maintained by a front-ranking cast. Bogart's virile performance is handsomely matched by Jones' pert and vivacious study of the wife of the Englishman who pretends to status and riches which neither has enjoyed.
Gina Lollobrigida gives a provocative portrayal as Bogart's wife while Edward Underdown stands out as the Englishman.
(B&W) Widescreen. Available on VHS, DVD. Extract of a review from 1953. Running time: 100 MIN.
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