The Incident (1967)

You won't be disappointed!

The Age of Commercialism

A lot of fun.

The movie turns out to be a little better than the average. Starting from a romantic formula often seen in the cinema, it ends in the most predictable (and somewhat bland) way.

Considering the story telling approach of movies in the 60's (in my opinion, often borderline campy), this movie does not fail on its ability to deliver an escalating powerful story, superbly acted, and in large timeless. My favorite aspect however is the delivery of the understory and how's tragically/traumatically catalyzed via the auspices of two hoodlums. Tony Musante delivers an Oscar level performance, with no lessor performances by Martin Sheen in his debut role (I believe it may have been Tony's also) and superb performances from all supporting actors performing beyond believability to a point where their characters are tragically relate-able. Ranks up there as one of my all time favorites.

I bought a used VHS tape of this recently, and saw it for the first time in decades (I'd seen it on TV in 1972). I believe it's based on a real incident or incidents that took place in NYC in the mid-sixties. That two punks can hold a subway car hostage is realistic always; people don't want to get involved, and that could include any of us. Nonetheless, that that street crime has become more vicious--and armed--since then does diminishes its power. Then again, a switchblade can be as dangerous as a gun, and Musante's brandishing it would have been scary at any time. A well-acted piece, and interesting to see the late Ed MacMahon in a film. It was also interesting that this was Martin Sheen's first screen role, and as an aggressive punk. In reality, he's one of Hollywood's leading pacifists.

In answer to the negative views , I must point out that this movie was very believable. Most people are overwhelmed by even the ILLUSION of bulliness. There was an attempted escape or 2 . Oh by the way , have you heard of the KITTY GENOVESE CASE. This movie was way ahead of its time . I loved the fact they gave each character a platform explaining the psychology, sociology and overall dynamics leading up to their 'fate' on that train. Genius indeed. Great acting, suspense and in some ways very HITCHCOCKIAN. The cast blew me away and if you want to see Martin Sheens partner in crime ... Tony Musante, you can see him in WE OWN THE NIGHT. He actually plays a good guy in that movie albeit a few pounds heavier lol. He was such a wonderful 'bad' guy in this movie. Treat yourself and watch this gem . I do not like remakes but this one would be an exception

What's with all this praise for a cartoon of a movie? The acting was fair at most. Martin Sheen and Tony Musante resembled a couple of choir boys. They're going to terrify a subway car loaded with men, including two soldiers? Gimmee a break. There were so many unbelievable moments I don't know where to begin. For instance; why didn't the "terrified" passengers simply get off at the next stop? Why didn't one or two of the "men" on board simply deck the pair of laughable punks? Why does it takes ten times longer for the train to travel through the city than it would for real? Oh, wait a second, I know; then we wouldn't have a movie. Unfortunately we do, but what a yawner it is.