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Touch Of Evil
1958

Orson Welles Collection, archived movie

Touch of Evil is a gripping film noir masterpiece from 1958, written and directed by the iconic Orson Welles, who also stars in the film. Loosely based on the novel "Badge of Evil" by Whit Masterson, the movie boasts a stellar cast, including Charlton Heston, Janet Leigh, Joseph Calleia, Akim Tamiroff, and Marlene Dietrich.

The story unfolds in a border town where a car bombing occurs, sparking an investigation led by Mexican drug enforcement officer Miguel Vargas (Charlton Heston) and the corrupt and jaded police captain Hank Quinlan (Orson Welles). As the two clash, Vargas becomes determined to expose Quinlan's shady methods.

The film delves into themes of corruption, morality, and the darker side of human nature, all set against a backdrop of tension and deception. The mesmerizing performances of the cast, combined with Welles's masterful direction, create a haunting and atmospheric noir experience.

Touch of Evil was initially released in a version edited by Universal-International, but over time, it received recognition for its brilliance, especially in Europe. In 1998, the film was re-edited according to Welles's original vision, outlined in a 58-page memo, which truly showcased his creative genius.

Recognized for its cultural significance, Touch of Evil was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 1993. This enduring classic continues to captivate audiences and remains a testament to Orson Welles's immense talent as a director, writer, and actor.

Cast
Charlton Heston as Ramon Miguel Vargas
Janet Leigh as Susan Vargas
Orson Welles as Police Captain Hank Quinlan
Joseph Calleia as Sgt. Pete Menzies
Akim Tamiroff as Uncle Joe Grandi
Joanna Cook Moore as Marcia Linnekar
Ray Collins as District Attorney Adair
Dennis Weaver as the Night Manager
Val de Vargas as Pancho
Mort Mills as Al Schwartz
Victor Millan as Manolo Sanchez
Lalo Rios as Risto
Phil Harvey as Blaine
Joi Lansing as Zita
Harry Shannon as Police Chief Pete Gould
Rusty Wescoatt as Casey
Wayne Taylor as a gang member
Ken Miller as a gang member
Raymond Rodriguez as a gang member
Arlene McQuade as Ginnie
Dan White as the Border Guard
Zsa Zsa Gabor as the Strip-club owner
Marlene Dietrich as Tana
Mercedes McCambridge as a gang leader
William Tannen as Howard Frantz
Joseph Cotten (uncredited) as a coroner