The Servant (1963)

dir. Joseph Losey
writ. Harold Pinter from novel by Robin Maugham
feat. Dirk Bogarde, Sarah Miles, Wendy Craig, James Fox

It's almost surprising to find that The Servant is adapted by Harold Pinter and not an original work of his own given its delightfully twisting path from demure, almost boring drama, into subversive, psychologically tormenting role reversal. Hugo Barrett (Bogarde) quietly transforms from butler to master with a minimum of exertion, inviting the question of whether this is the normal course charted by the character or simply his polite reaction to this specific boss (Fox). The absence of explanation for Barrett's actions are a large part of what makes the story so engaging, as though the fantasy of lording over one's employer is so natural that no reason is necessary.

Vera (Miles) slips in as a wonderful seductress, giving much needed vigor to the film and to Barrett, who develops a sly smile as his libido is stoked and the game progresses. My only complaint is in the victim of Tony (Fox) who seems such an easy target, so smoothly duped, that there isn't much accomplishment in the conquest. While he may be a stand-in for a class of moronic wealthy weaklings, a greater challenge would have proved Barrett's skills even more astonishing. Still, the manipulation and ultimate destruction of one man's will and soul, portrayed in such a wonderfully seedy Pinter fashion, are deeply satisfying.