The best of John Huston: Five films every movie fan should watch

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John Huston was a visionary director, screenwriter, and actor whose influential career spanned over five decades. Born in 1906 in Nevada, Missouri, Huston grew to become one of Hollywood's most acclaimed filmmakers. Known for his unique storytelling style and ability to adapt literary classics to the screen, his films often explored complex themes of morality, human nature, and adventure, making him a standout figure in the world of cinema. With a distinctive voice and a penchant for rich character development, Huston's work remains timeless and relevant.

Today, we would like to dive into his top five films, ranked from fifth to first, each reflecting his talent for adapting compelling stories and his keen eye for character development. So let's not waste any more time. Here's what we consider to be the best of John Huston.

5. Key Largo (1948)

Key Largo is a tense film noir that takes place in a hurricane-ravaged hotel in the Florida Keys. When war veteran Frank McCloud (Humphrey Bogart) visits the hotel to pay his respects to his deceased friend, he finds himself trapped with a group of criminals led by the ruthless Johnny Rocco (Edward G. Robinson). As the storm rages outside, the situation inside the hotel becomes increasingly volatile.

Huston's Key Largo masterfully blends suspense and drama, exploring themes of loyalty, courage, and the human capacity for evil. The film's claustrophobic setting amplifies the tension, drawing viewers into a psychological battle between the characters. With powerful performances, particularly from Bogart and his real-life wife, Lauren Bacall, Huston crafts a gripping narrative that examines the moral complexities of human relationships under duress. The film also reflects on post-war disillusionment, highlighting the struggles of veterans and the personal demons they face.

4. The Man Who Would Be King (1975)

Based on a story by Rudyard Kipling, The Man Who Would Be King follows two British adventurers, Daniel Dravot (Sean Connery) and Peachy Carnehan (Michael Caine), who set out to establish themselves as kings of a remote part of Afghanistan. Their ambitious quest leads to unexpected consequences as they navigate the complexities of power, loyalty, and betrayal.

Huston's adaptation of Kipling's tale is a celebration of adventure and imperialism while also serving as a cautionary tale about the dangers of hubris. The film examines the thin line between ambition and folly, as the protagonists' dreams of glory unravel in the face of cultural complexities and unforeseen challenges. With stunning cinematography and strong performances, particularly from Connery and Caine, Huston creates a rich narrative that reflects on the nature of leadership and the impact of colonialism. And the film's themes of friendship and the corrupting influence of power resonate deeply, making it a profound exploration of human nature.

3. The African Queen (1951)

Set during World War I, The African Queen follows the unlikely pairing of Charlie Allnut (Humphrey Bogart), a rough-and-tumble boat captain, and Rose Sayer (Katharine Hepburn), a prim British missionary. Together, they embark on a dangerous journey downriver in an old boat to sabotage a German warship, forging a bond amidst adversity.

Huston's The African Queen is a delightful blend of adventure, romance, and humor, showcasing the power of unlikely alliances. The film highlights themes of resilience, companionship, and the transformative nature of love in the face of danger. Bogart and Hepburn deliver remarkable performances, bringing their characters to life with humor and depth. And Huston's direction captures the beauty and peril of the African landscape, creating a vivid backdrop for the characters' journey. The film ultimately explores the idea that love can emerge in the most unexpected circumstances, making it a timeless classic.

2. The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948)

The Treasure of the Sierra Madre follows two down-and-out Americans, Fred C. Dobbs (Humphrey Bogart) and Bob Curtin (Tim Holt), who team up with an old prospector, Howard (Walter Huston), to search for gold in the mountains of Mexico. As their fortune grows, so does paranoia and greed, leading to dire consequences.

Huston's film is a powerful exploration of greed, ambition, and the moral complexities of human nature. The treasure hunt serves as a metaphor for the darker sides of wealth and the destructive forces of greed, ultimately leading to the characters' downfall. The film's memorable tagline, "Badges? We don't need no stinking badges!" has entered pop culture, encapsulating the themes of betrayal and moral decay. With stunning cinematography and strong performances, particularly from Bogart and Huston, the film critiques the American Dream and the pursuit of wealth, making it a profound statement on human frailty.

1. The Maltese Falcon (1941)

In The Maltese Falcon, private detective Sam Spade (Humphrey Bogart) becomes embroiled in a complex plot involving a priceless statuette, deceitful femme fatales, and a cast of intriguing characters. As Spade navigates the murky waters of betrayal and greed, he must confront his own moral compass.

Huston's The Maltese Falcon is a quintessential film noir that redefined the genre and solidified Bogart's status as an iconic leading man. With its intricate plot, sharp dialogue, and morally ambiguous characters, the film delves into themes of loyalty, trust, and the darker aspects of human desire. Huston's masterful direction creates a captivating atmosphere filled with tension and intrigue, making the audience question the true nature of each character. The film's legacy as a classic of American cinema lies in its exploration of the complexities of human nature, capturing the essence of noir storytelling while setting the standard for future films in the genre.

And that's all for today! John Huston's remarkable body of work has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. With a talent for adapting compelling stories and a keen eye for character development, he explored themes of morality, adventure, and the human experience. From the thrilling depths of The Maltese Falcon to the profound explorations of greed in The Treasure of the Sierra Madre, Huston's films continue to resonate with us today. And his legacy as a master storyteller and filmmaker endures, ensuring that his contributions to the art of cinema will be celebrated for generations to come.

Now we would love to hear about your experiences with John Huston's work! Which of his films do you consider the best? Would you rearrange the list or add any others? We can't wait to see your picks in the comments!