Operazione terrore

I have to agree with another review which wondered why ROSS MARTIN didn't just rob a bank himself if he wanted that $100,000 so badly, instead of terrorizing a young bank clerk (LEE REMICK) and her not too bright sister (STEPHANIE POWERS). Her sister walks right into the robber's den, completely unaware that his phone call is a hoax.

Otherwise, Blake Edwards has directed this taut yarn with skill--a yarn which would have been even tighter if the suspense hadn't been dragged out to interminable length. Many stretches of film go on too long before the key point is made, as for example with the woman who has an unusual occupation.

There are several edge of the seat moments, but this could have had even more impact if the pace were quickened rather than slowed down in spots toward the segment of the film that deals with the sister's kidnapping. At that point, it loses some of its credibility.

Good performances help sustain whatever suspense there is, especially from LEE REMICK, GLENN FORD, ROSS MARTIN and NED GLASS.

Skillfully directed but needed a tighter script.