The Big Sleep
Private Investigator Philip Marlowe is hired by wealthy General Sternwood regarding a matter involving his youngest daughter Carmen. Before the complex case is over, Marlowe sees murder, blackmail, deception, and what might be love.
Critics Sentiment
Vivian unties Marlowe and he kills Canino
Canino forces Harry Jones to drink poison
The film jumps from its lowest point during Harry Jones' poisoning to its highest peak when Vivian frees Marlowe and they defeat Canino together, showcasing the ultimate triumph of their partnership.
Critics consistently praise The Big Sleep's atmosphere, performances, and dialogue while acknowledging its notoriously complex plot. The Bogart-Bacall chemistry reaches its zenith in the final act, though some reviewers express frustration with the convoluted mystery and anticlimactic resolution. Despite plotting complaints, most critics celebrate it as a noir masterpiece elevated by stellar performances and Hawks' direction.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 48
Humphrey Bogart
Philip Marlowe
Lauren Bacall
Vivian Sternwood Rutledge
John Ridgely
Eddie Mars
Martha Vickers
Carmen Sternwood
Louis Jean Heydt
Joe Brody
Charles Waldron
General Sternwood
Regis Toomey
Chief Inspector Bernie Ohls
Sonia Darrin
Agnes Lowzier (uncredited)
Elisha Cook Jr.
Harry Jones
Bob Steele
Lash Canino
Dorothy Malone
Acme Bookstore Proprietress
Peggy Knudsen
Mona Mars
Charles D. Brown
Norris the Butler
Trevor Bardette
Art Huck (uncredited)
Joy Barlow
Taxi Driver (uncredited)
Max Barwyn
Max - Head Waiter (uncredited)
Deannie Best
Waitress (uncredited)
Tanis Chandler
Waitress (uncredited)
Jack Chefe
Croupier (uncredited)
James Conaty
Nightclub Patron (uncredited)
Crew
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