Bogart has a dark chemistry, but he seems to coast through his role, and while Bacall smolders magnificently she isn't given much to do. The characters were all a little stilted, and the scenes felt staged. However, the intrigue is gripping, and the romance strangely appealing. The film establishes an excellent mood, and the plot writhes gloriously to keep itself alive, exploring the characters in more depth than I would have expected.

Damn that Hays Code.

excellent film noir

Far from being a masterpiece, but undeniably an entertaining noir.

the big falling asleep

So much dialogue the characters are literally interrupting each other to get a word in. All of it is valuable in plot development and essential for a film lover. Some eyebrow raising sexuality for the era is implied or spoken. Bogart delivers with his classic style taking on a private dick role in a plot that, matching his character 'like(s) to get out in front.' we just have to keep up.

Is he as cute as you are? No one is! This movie is oozing with so much manliness I can't help but get absorbed in Mr. Bogart's manly charms, being the smoooooooth pimp daddy that he is. If you have never seen a film like this before, he could feel a little overwhelming at times, maybe even laughable. Don't let that stop you, though. Beneath its thick exterior is a solid and enjoyable mystery that is really well assembled. B

Bit too much traffic in an otherwise fantastic film.

It retains the theme of professionalism from Chandler's original novel, at least until the very end. Only then does Hawks blink and offer us a Hollywood ending, rather than the more complex ending in the novel (an ending which stays truer to Marlowe's character, btw). However, the film is great fun as a whole, with twists and turns and atmosphere that rival any of the old noirs of the 40s and 50s. Definitely an enjoyable ride.

Even by today's standards the film is far too complicated, but the look and feel of it is pitch perfect. How cool is Humphrey Bogart?

need to watch this one again to give it a proper review, but as a huge fan of film noir back in my college days, this was right up there with other bogey flicks and chandlerian noir as a whole

Great dialogue and central performances keep this movie from feeling dated. It's a little confusing but I feel it resolved satisfactorily and it kept me engaged for the entirety of its 110 minute running time.

I need to see this one again..