Paul Newman Uncovers a Conspiracy in This Hitchcock-Inspired Thriller
Key Points
The Prize (1963) Summary
“The Prize” (1963), directed by Mark Robson, is a gripping thriller that combines elements of humor and suspense. The film, adapted from Irving Wallace’s novel by Ernest Lehman, follows Nobel Prize-winning author Andrew Craig as he stumbles upon a conspiracy involving the prestigious awards in Stockholm.
Cast
- Paul Newman as Andrew Craig
- Elke Sommer as Inger Lisa Andersson
- Edward G. Robinson as Dr. Max Stratman
- Diane Baker as Emily Stratman
- Kevin McCarthy as Dr. John Garrett
Review
Following the success of “North by Northwest,” Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer sought to replicate the magic with “The Prize.” With a screenplay by Ernest Lehman, known for his collaboration with Alfred Hitchcock, the film mirrors many elements of the earlier hit while carving its unique niche in the genre.
Paul Newman stars as Andrew Craig, a cynical and self-doubting American novelist who unexpectedly wins the Nobel Prize for Literature. Arriving in Stockholm for the award ceremony, Craig, with his penchant for alcohol and women, soon finds himself embroiled in a web of intrigue. Unlike the typical hero, Craig’s skepticism and sharp wit make him a memorable and relatable protagonist.
From the moment Craig notices odd behavior from Dr. Max Stratman, a fellow laureate played by Edward G. Robinson, his suspicions grow. Stratman’s sudden inability to recognize Craig hints at a deeper mystery. The plot thickens as Craig discovers Stratman has been kidnapped and replaced by a Soviet impostor intending to stage a defection.
Despite Craig’s increasingly desperate attempts to alert others to the conspiracy, his claims are dismissed as the ravings of a drunk. This sets the stage for a series of thrilling and comedic escapades, including narrow escapes from knife-wielding assassins, encounters with dubious characters, and a memorable chase through a nudist convention.
Elke Sommer shines as Inger Lisa Andersson, Craig’s official escort, tasked with keeping him out of trouble. Her chemistry with Newman adds a delightful layer of romantic tension. Diane Baker’s portrayal of Emily, Stratman’s niece, adds depth to the narrative, emphasizing the personal stakes involved.
Robson’s direction ensures the film moves at a brisk pace, blending suspense with moments of humor. The supporting cast, including Kevin McCarthy and Sergio Fantoni as feuding Nobel laureates, enriches the story with subplots that enhance the main narrative without overshadowing it.
While “The Prize” may not possess Hitchcock’s signature set pieces, it compensates with its engaging storyline and dynamic performances. Lehman’s script cleverly incorporates Swedish cultural elements, using them to add authenticity and comedic relief.
in Conclusion “The Prize” is an entertaining and well-crafted thriller that successfully blends humor and suspense. Paul Newman’s charissmatic performance, coupled with a strong supporting cast and Lehman’s adept screenplay, makes it a standout film of the era. For fans of Hitchcock-inspired cinema, “The Prize” offers a delightful mix of intrigue, humor, and high stakes, proving that even without Hitchcock at the helm, a good story can still captivate and thrill.
