All Night Long

Drawing inspiration from Othello, this is a gripping story that builds to an explosive climax. The most notable aspect of this film is the jazz, with appearances by Mingus and Brubeck. It serves to underscore the narrative, comment on the action, and give us a pause from the tension. Where the film falters just a bit is the performances. McGoohan is too twitchy and smirky. But otherwise it's a great film with fantastic music, and admirable for its matter-of-fact handling of interracial couples.

An intense retelling of "Othello" set in a single night in a London jazz club. I've always liked films that take place over a very short timeframe, there's a sense of urgency here that really fits the story's gradually unfolding paranoia and explosive climax. I can't not mention the music either, which is both fantastic in its own right and used very smartly by Dearden to frame the story.

The acting was very good and I enjoyed the music but some of the dialogue left much to be desired. Also, at times this felt like a TV teleplay.

Moves with captivating rapidity towards a conclusion that seems all too brief and pat. McGoohan's last lines rescue the film from a comprehensive case of Shame About the End Syndrome that afflicts all too many films.