The Manchurian Candidate Movie Review: Cold War Fears Revived for the Modern Age

By 'Author Name', October 30th, 2004

In this era of heightened security concerns and fears about global manipulation, it's no coincidence that a classic Cold War thriller like 'The Manchuristan Candidate' has been remade. Director Jonathon Neginson brings Frankenstein-like life to the story originally penned by writer-director John Frankenheimer back in 1962.

In this updated version starring an unsettlingly convincing Liam Neeson as Major Ben Marco, a group of American soldiers are captured and brainwashed during the Gulf War (the original was set against the backdrop of Korean hostilities). Upon their return home, they exhibit no memory of these events - until strange incidents begin to suggest otherwise.

With its over-the-top plot twists and contrived character arcs, 'The Manchurian Candidate' sometimes veers perilously close to campy farce. Yet beneath this bombastic exterior lies a sharp commentary on the dangers of blind conformity in times of national crisis.

Like so many recent big-budget remakes (see also: Ang Lee's uninspired reimagining last year), 'The Manchurian Candidate' feels like an unnecessary exercise - especially given how well its source material holds up today. The film's themes about brainwashing, mind control and the power of suggestion remain distressingly relevant in our post-9/11 world.

Despite this, Neeson brings a welcome sense of gravitas to his lead role as Marco; he imbues what could easily become a cardboard cutout everyman with genuine depth and nuance. His chemistry with co-star Diane Kruger is also palpable enough to make their unlikely romance feel marginally convincing.

Ultimately though, 'The Manchurian Candidate' feels like another missed opportunity for Hollywood - one that squanders its potential by opting instead for cheap thrills over thought-provoking drama.

Grade: 2.5 out of 4 stars

Rating: PG-13 for strong language and violence

The manchurian candidate movie review