Bigger Than Life
Dir: Nicholas Ray
1956
*****
Nicholas Ray's Bigger Than Life is a chilling and realistic portrayal of mental illness and addiction that challenged the attitude of the 1950's and peoples general ignorance on the subjects. James Mason's character fits well with the typical 50's depiction of the father of the house but his swing into aggressor and the shocking finale made the film quite controversial on release and highlighted it against its contemporaries. Nicholas Ray was a master of his craft, he was subtle when he needed to be and was like a sledgehammer when it counted. James Mason's performance is exceptional and shamefully overlooked.