Duel

Despite its TV origins and simple plot structure, Duel works extremely well as a piece of cinema and showcases Spielberg’s early ability to craft a series of brilliantly sustained tense action sequences despite the minimal budget he had. The lack of time and money also shows Spielberg at his most creative - peppering the film with some clever tracking shots around the vehicles whilst reusing footage from different angles to give the illusion of distance travelled and creating a sense of urgency and speed throughout from the way in which the vehicles were shot. Weaver’s performances is also excellent, from his initial uncertainty and panic to a finale that leaves him slightly unhinged and desperate and he is probably one of Spielberg’s most relatable everyman - his initial need to rationalise and avoid confrontation despite what is happening and his final manic reaction to the resolution mirroring how most people in the audience would probably react. A voiceover to elaborate on his thoughts at certain points in the film and some scenes to provide background on his character prove unnecessary and are the film's only false note.

A classic. You have to see this. W/o question. BUT... let's be realistic, horrible acting and extreme overacting. Sometimes painful to watch. But still, impressive how you can make a movie with a semi, a car, and some extras....