Any soul who knows anything regarding the history and development of motion pictures over the years knows the name of this picture. It has long been hailed as one of the greatest films ever made, and its cast of Humphrey Bogart, Peter Lorre, Sydney Greenstreet, and Mary Astor - icons of Hollywood's golden age, guarantee its film immortality.
But how many people know of the book from where the story to this classic emerged?
I certainly didn't. I know the name Dashiell Hammett. I probably heard something of the movie originating from a book at some point in my memory, but my familiarity with the movie, and the excellence with which it is produced, overshadows any knowledge of what the book may be.
As movie adaptations often manage.
Therefore this full cast dramatization of the 1930 serialized hard-boiled classic detective novel promises entertainment and education, i.e. an expansive exploration of the story behind the movie.
There is no disappointment. Every performance is spot on.
Now as to the story itself, Sam Spade is a private detective who is embroiled in the recovery of a figurine sought be a number of dubious characters. The 'falcon' has a history to it that makes it virtually priceless, but he doesn't know that - and when he discovers it is not entirely certain. I think for me, that aspect of his character might be the real charm of his character. It's obvious he doesn't know what is going on with Brigid O'Shaughnessy walks into his office; or after his partner Miles Archer (who is following Floyd Thursby for Miss O'Shaughnessy)
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