University of Virginia Library

Grotesque Idiot

By far the most interesting
character in the film is Michael the
idiot, brilliantly interpreted by John
Mills. In what could have been a
grotesque stock figure, Mills has
created a genuine "character" and
not a freak for the visual shock
value. Christopher Jones' soldier is
the exact opposite, with the young
actor giving a performance which is
frequently ridiculous.

Trevor Howard handles the role
of the priest satisfactorily. Sarah
Miles left me unimpressed, which is
hardly the feeling the main
character should give one. It's hard
to work-up any sympathy for her.
Robert Mitchum is miscast only in
the sense that he's not British, but
his performance is quite sensitive
and surprisingly good.