State Secret / The Great Manhunt (1950) | Directed by Sidney Gilliat

"State Secret" (1950), also known in the U.S. as "The Great Manhunt," is a British thriller film directed by Sidney Gilliat. It stars Douglas Fairbanks Jr., Glynis Johns, and Jack Hawkins. The film is a mix of political intrigue and suspense, with a compelling narrative that unfolds in a fictional Eastern European country.

In "State Secret," Douglas Fairbanks Jr. plays Dr. John Marlowe, an American surgeon who is invited to a medical conference in Vosnia, a fictional Eastern European country. While there, he unwittingly becomes embroiled in political intrigue when he performs a surgery on the country's dictator. When the dictator dies, Marlowe finds himself hunted by the secret police, leading to a desperate manhunt across the country. Glynis Johns plays Lisa Robinson, a British actress who becomes Marlowe's ally and romantic interest, helping him in his attempt to escape.

The film has been praised for its brisk pacing and engaging storyline, which keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. Douglas Fairbanks Jr.'s performance as Dr. Marlowe is charismatic and solid, effectively capturing the desperation and resourcefulness of his character. However, the film does have its critics who argue that some of the plot elements feel contrived, and the depiction of the fictional Eastern European setting leans on stereotypical portrayals of Cold War-era Iron Curtain countries.

"State Secret" is a compelling thriller that effectively combines suspense with political drama. The direction by Sidney Gilliat is tight, and the script is well-crafted, balancing tension and moments of lighter relief. The chemistry between Fairbanks Jr. and Johns adds a layer of human interest to the otherwise stark political backdrop. Although the setting and political context might seem dated to contemporary audiences, the film's underlying themes of freedom and oppression remain relevant.

Cast
Douglas Fairbanks Jr. as Dr. John Marlowe
Glynis Johns as Lisa Robinson
Jack Hawkins as Colonel Galcon
Herbert Lom as the Chief of Police
Walter Rilla as General Niva

"State Secret" stands out as a well-executed thriller from the early Cold War period, featuring strong performances and a storyline that offers both suspense and a critical look at totalitarian regimes. It is a notable entry in the genre and worth watching for fans of classic thrillers and political dramas.