Cape Fear
Universal Pictures | Release Date: April 12, 1962 CRITIC SCORE DISTRIBUTION
76
METASCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 5 Critic Reviews
Positive:
5
Mixed:
0
Negative:
0
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Critic Reviews

Critic scorePublicationBy date
80
TV Guide MagazineStaff (Not Credited)
Suspenseful and very frightening, thanks to Robert Mitchum's lethally threatening performance and the frightened reactions of a pro cast. Read full review
80
Chicago ReaderJonathan Rosenbaum
This 1962 thriller is better than the Scorsese remake—above all for Robert Mitchum's chilling performance as a vengeful ex-con and an overall brute force in the crude story line—though it's arguably still some distance from deserving its reputation as a classic. Read full review
80
Time Out LondonStaff (Not Credited)
If director Thompson isn't quite skilful enough to give the film its final touch of class (many of the shocks are just too planned), the relentlessness of the story and Mitchum's tangibly sordid presence guarantee the viewer's quivering attention. Read full review
70
The New York TimesBosley Crowther
Technically, it's a good job. Mr. Webb has prepared a tough, tight script and Mr. Thompson has directed in a steady and starkly sinister style. There is no waste motion, no fooling. Everything is sharp and direct. Menace quivers in the picture like a sneaky electrical charge. And Mr. Mitchum plays the villain with the cheekiest, wickedest arrogance and the most relentless aura of sadism that he has ever managed to generate...But this is really one of those shockers that provokes disgust and regret. There seems to be no reason for it but to agitate anguish and a violent, vengeful urge that is offered some animal satisfaction by that murderous fight at the end. Read full review
70
VarietyStaff (Not Credited)
As a forthright exercise in cumulative terror Cape Fear is a competent and visually polished entry. Read full review
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