09 Aug The Hook
(1963) During the final days of the Korean War, three soldiers agonize over their orders to kill a prisoner. The opening remarks of the film read, “…although it could have happened in any time or any war, we have chosen Korea … 1953 ...”
In spite of the fact that this is not a World War II movie, I watched it … mainly because I am such a Kirk Douglas fan.
The Hook was adapted from a 1957 French novel L’Hamecon, “The Fishing Hook,” by Syrian writer Vahé Katcha. I did read that the author worked on this film, but I couldn’t find a synopsis of his book. Most of the story movie takes place on a neutral Finnish boat that is carrying the soldiers and a cargo of oil. I don’t remember seeing any fish. There was a huge hook.
I immediately recognized the actor Robert Walker. At least that’s who I thought he was. I’ve written about Walker several times. (The Clock, See Here Private Hargrove, Since You Went Away) I’ve enjoyed all his performances, realizing what torment he endured when his beautiful young wife, Jennifer Jones, left him for the mega Hollywood producer David O. Selznick.
Well, this young man is the son of Walker and Jones, in his screen debut. He was five years old when his parents divorced. He is the image of his father. His mother died in 2009 at the age of 90 and at the time was living in Malibu with her son Robert and his family.
As for The Hook, no one wants to execute Kim, the poor North Korean prisoner. Kirk Douglas is the conflicted sergeant who tries to get the other two men to do it.
Kid, any day a war ends is a nice day. (Kirk Douglas’ last line)
Watch an original trailer on the Turner Classic Movies website.
The Hook at amazon.com
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