Cold Sweat

Review by John Kay

Ten years ago Joe Moran (Charles Bronson) escaped from a German military prison with four other convicts.

Witnessing the brutal killing of a policeman by his cronies he flees the scene leaving them to face the wrath of the authorities.

A decade later Joe is a man of status, respected by the community.

Now married to Fabienne (Liv Ullman) who has a 12-year-old daughter, he lives the idyllic life of a charter boat operator in the south of France.

One night his ex-partners turn up, led by Captain Ross (James Mason), and demand he use his vessel to transport heroin.

To convince him to obey they kidnap Fabienne's daughter.

Not a man to scare easily; in return Joe snatches the Captain's girlfriend (Jill Ireland). It's a stand off until a third party enters the scene inducing chilly perspiration in both adversaries.

'Cold Sweat' is a familiar chase/caper movie of the seventies; plenty of action, good actors and lots of interesting locations. It is directed by Terence Young, the first and arguably the best 'James Bond' director, (Dr No, From Russia With Love, Thunderball).

Unfortunately a small budget and a weak script make this film one of his minor pieces.

Conclusion: Movie 75%