This
mystery murder comes out flat with no fizzle from the get-go and stays that
way. A shame with a cast of George Peppard, Jean Seberg and Richard Kiley.
But the director is much more interested in presenting a debate about the
rights of the criminal than in a suspenseful film. The debate is not done
with any finesse but done with clanging bells. And the mystery is so obvious
that any other solution would be malfeasance.
Peppard is a police captain being awarded
for bringing a killer and a rapist to justice. His adoring wife Seberg is
in the audience. But on this same day the Supreme Court overturns the man's
(Robert Lyons) conviction and orders a new trial. Kiley is his lawyer and
explains to the cops that they have to play by the rules. But you know he
is guilty. Yes, but those are the rules. This debate of course was an ongoing
conversation back in the 60s. Later that day, Peppard has to go to Baltimore
to give a speech and to spend the night. Turns out Seberg is not so adoring
and has her lover over. Someone kills them both. So much for Seberg if that's
the reason you came. The cops immediately suspect Peppard of sneaking back,
killing them and going back to Baltimore. All very predictable and you want
to yell at the cops for being a little dim. Peppard brings no warmth or charm
to his role. Marble. Seberg is lovely while she is alive.
