Frank Sinatra's '60s Political Thriller Is One Of The Best Movies On Tubi
United Artists
Tubi is a streaming service that boasts an impressive selection of films, making it a top choice for movie enthusiasts. Among its vast library, one standout film is Frank Sinatra's 'The Manchurian Candidate,' a political thriller that is currently available to stream for free on Tubi. This movie, released in 1962, is a masterpiece that delves into the era's Cold War paranoia and societal mistrust, making it a must-watch for any film buff.
Sinatra's career at the time was an intriguing one. Despite facing a career crisis in the early 1950s due to accusations of being a communist sympathizer, he had already achieved significant success with his portrayal of Private Angelo Maggio in 'From Here to Eternity,' for which he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. This role marked a turning point, leading to a collaboration with Capitol Records and arranger Nelson Riddle, resulting in some of the finest records of the 20th Century. Sinatra's acting prowess was further solidified with leading roles in 'The Man with the Golden Arm,' 'Guys and Dolls,' 'High Society,' and 'Pal Joey.'
However, it was his performance in 'The Manchurian Candidate' that truly showcased his versatility and talent. Directed by John Frankenheimer and based on Richard Condon's novel, the film presents a gripping narrative of Cold War paranoia and societal mistrust. Sinatra plays U.S. Army Major Bennett Marco, who, along with Sergeant Raymond Shaw (Lawrence Harvey), is captured by Soviet and Chinese soldiers during the Korean War. They are subjected to brainwashing, with Shaw becoming a sleeper agent triggered by the Queen of Diamonds in a game of solitaire. The film explores the theme of personal autonomy and the loss of trust in institutions, creating a dark and unsettling atmosphere.
The movie's impact was immediate and enduring. Released during the Cuban Missile Crisis and a year before the assassination of John F. Kennedy, it proved to be eerily prescient. The film's dark humor, as noted by George Axelrod, was initially misunderstood, but it ultimately contributed to its success. 'The Manchurian Candidate' received Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress (Angela Lansbury) and Best Editing, and it made a substantial profit on a modest budget. Critics praised its bold storytelling, with Roger Ebert adding it to his 'great movies' list, commending its freshness and intelligence. Today, it boasts an impressive 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, solidifying its status as a classic.
In conclusion, 'The Manchurian Candidate' is a must-watch film, offering a captivating blend of political intrigue, psychological suspense, and dark humor. Its availability on Tubi is a perfect opportunity to explore this timeless thriller, providing a unique perspective on a pivotal era in history.
