The Orange Neck
The Orange Neck

Movie spotlight

The Orange Neck

1954
Movie
20 min
Russian

Two pairs of partridges, Brovkins and Podkovkins, hatch by twelve chicks. Podkovkins get acquainted with the lark, and both the Brovkins family are killed by a falcon. Podkovkin's wife, the Orange Neck, decides to adopt chicks as their own. In the autumn, she brings twenty-four chicks to a meeting of partridges, and she is chosen as the main chicken.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Director: James L. CardwellGenres: Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

A returning war veteran, suffering from amnesia and a mysterious orange stain on his neck, finds himself entangled in a dangerous web of deceit and murder. As he tries to piece together his fragmented memories, he uncovers a plot involving stolen jewels and betrayal, forcing him to confront a past he cannot remember but which threatens his very life. He must rely on the help of a woman who may or may not be an ally.

Critical Reception

Upon its release, 'The Orange Neck' received a mixed-to-positive reception, with critics praising its suspenseful atmosphere and intriguing mystery, though some found the pacing occasionally uneven. Audiences were drawn to its noir-ish elements and the central enigmatic performance of Robert Sterling.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its tense atmosphere and intriguing central mystery.

  • Robert Sterling's performance as the amnesiac protagonist is a highlight.

  • Some critics noted a slightly slow pace in the middle act.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this lesser-known film, but those available tend to appreciate its classic thriller elements and suspenseful plot.

Fun Fact

The distinctive 'orange neck' of the protagonist was achieved using a temporary, non-toxic dye that was applied each day before filming.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review