This is a review of the movie Seven Days in May
As alluded to in the review of The Swimmer, I’ve been on a Burt Lancaster kick. Running through his filmography it became clear I’ve missed some. Seven Days in May is a movie with great acting, a good story and a great what-if scenario.
Casting
The movie is a tug of war between Lancaster playing General James Mattoon Scott and his subordinate Kurt Douglas playing Col. Martin Casey. Lancaster is in charge of preparing the military for an impending nuclear disarmament treaty that was negotiated by the President played by Fredric March. Lancaster is a politically popular General that is being considered to run against March in the next election.
Through observation and situational dynamics, Douglas picks up on something that just isn’t right. As he does this, the layers of a conspiracy onion begin peeling away.
What You’ll Like
There are a number of things to like about this movie:
Lancaster vs. Douglas: I am unsure of their relationship in life, but you get the conflict between the two in the movie. You can feel it and it become cringe worthy when Douglas stumbles upon a former lover of Lancaster’s.
The Plot: Most of the time conspiracy movies try to hide in plain sight clues about the genesis of the conspiracy. Not Seven Days in May. They come right out and show you, but the mystery is in the evidence. Douglas enlists the President’s help in defeating the conspiracy, but they have to get the evidence. You’re along for the great ride.
Pace: The movie moves along with excellent pace. No boring points, no pontificating and nothing that isn’t necessary to the story.
Final Words
This isn’t what you would call a cerebral thriller, but Seven Days in May is well acted, entertaining and worth a watch. You’ll get to see two great actors showing what it means to be good and riveting.