A classic

Since I’m a huge fan of Michael Caine, I was really eager to check this movie which belongs to his classics. Indeed, since this movie had a really solid reputation, I had some rather high expectations but, to be honest, I thought it was actually slightly disappointing. Of course, it was better than the remake starring Jude Law but, somehow, I had a hard time to get into this movie. Personally, I think it is because the morals and opinions have changed. I mean, 50 years ago, when this movie was released, you can imagine the impact that this libertine character must have had but, nowadays, we have a different relationship with sexuality (30 years of AIDS epidemic didn’t help either I guess). I also had a hard time with this guy, Alfie. Obviously, Michael Caine shouldn’t be blamed as he gave, as usual, a brilliant performance but I just didn’t like this character much. Indeed, he is really unlikeable, obnoxious and, even though the makers try to convince you that he is pretty cool, I thought he was actually rather pathetic. I don’t know, maybe I was in the wrong mood the first time I watched it and I should maybe give it a 2nd chance one day. To conclude, even though I thought it was rather disappointing, it still remain an intriguing feature and it is definitely worth a look, especially if you are interested in Michael Caine’s work.

6/10