The Quiet American

This movie is based on a Graham Greene novel of the same name. Set in Viet Nam in 1952, it is the story of a British reporter who befriends an American member of the Red Cross. Alden Pyle (Brandon Fraser) in addition to being an aid worker also seems to be wrapped up in the CIA and the third party coming to power in Viet Nam. In addition, he is in love with Thomas Fowler's (Michael Caine's) love interest. Through adventures and intrigue, these two come to know more than they want to about one another. The scenery is gorgeous. This is an interesting movie about the time period prior to American involvement in the war. This is the time period when American is beginning to get its feet wet and it's not a flattering sight. Slow moving, almost lyrical, but also violent and disturbing, The Quiet American is worth seeing, if only to get a picture of American involvement in the 50's.