Over at the always insightful and never ad-blaring DVD Journal, Damon Houx writes a thoughtful and just downright nice review of Carol Reed's masterpiece, "The Fallen Idol" (adapted from Graham Greene's wonderful novel). 

Out now in a much deserved Criterion Edition, Houx makes a lot of potent points about Reed's genius and the importance of this release. Carol Reed should never be forgotten. Says Houx: 

"Told from a third person point of view near the eyes of a child, 'The Fallen Idol' is a sneaky, great film. The plot is modest, but every performance is outstanding and Reed's control of both the child actor (which the supplements describe as being hard to wrangle) and framing is never less than outstanding. Much of this is due to the material, and yet Greene has always complemented Reed for his touch (the duo worked together three times, most famously with 'The Third Man'), which is brilliant throughout. Like a number of masterpieces from that era (including 'Bicycle Thieves' and 'Germany Year Zero') that frame a great story of a child growing up though witnessing the folly and despair of adults, 'The Fallen Idol' is able to use that child perspective to illuminate greater human truths. And hopefully the rediscovery of this masterwork will help restore in some small part Reed's reputation."

I'm with you Damon. And readers, rent or buy this movie. --posted by Kim