The Outsider
The Outsider

The Outsider

1967Movie120 minEnglish

Darren McGavin is David Ross, a private investigator playing a game of follow the money. A simple case of embezzling turns bad quickly when bodies start dropping and the savvy P.I. is the primary suspect in an attractive woman's death. This NBC TV movie served as a pilot for the later series.

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IMDb6.9/10
Director: Franklin J. SchaffnerGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

This biographical drama tells the story of Ira "Sparky" Watts, a Japanese-American GI who challenges racial prejudice during World War II. Despite facing discrimination, Watts volunteers for a dangerous reconnaissance mission behind enemy lines, determined to prove his courage and patriotism. His journey highlights the struggles of identity and belonging faced by Japanese-Americans during a time of intense anti-Japanese sentiment.

Critical Reception

The film received mixed to positive reviews, with particular praise for Tony Curtis's performance and its exploration of a sensitive wartime topic. While some critics found the narrative occasionally heavy-handed, it was generally acknowledged for its earnestness and its timely commentary on prejudice and heroism.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for Tony Curtis's compelling portrayal of a man defying prejudice.
  • Recognized for its attempt to address the complex issues of racism faced by Japanese-Americans during WWII.
  • Noted for its dramatic tension and exploration of bravery in the face of adversity.

Google audience: Audience reception for 'The Outsider' is not widely available in aggregated online formats, but historical reviews suggest an appreciation for its subject matter and Curtis's performance.

Awards & Accolades

None notable.

Fun Fact

Tony Curtis, who played the Japanese-American protagonist Ira Watts, was of Hungarian Jewish descent and did not speak Japanese. He learned a few phrases for the role and relied heavily on phonetic guidance.

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