Our Man in Havana

Synopsis

Our Man in Havana is a satirical espionage comedy directed by Carol Reed, based on Graham Greene's novel. Set amidst the political tensions of the Cold War in Cuba, the film follows James Wormold, a British vacuum cleaner salesman played by Alec Guinness, who is recruited as a spy despite having no real intelligence to offer. To maintain his cover, Wormold fabricates reports and agents, leading to a series of humorous and unexpected consequences. The movie deftly blends wit, suspense, and political commentary, showcasing Guinness's comedic timing and Reed's stylish direction. Its clever narrative offers a humorous yet thoughtful look at the absurdities of espionage and bureaucracy.

Cast

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  Alec Guinness

  Jim Wormold

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  Burl Ives

  Dr. Hasselbacher

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  Maureen O'Hara

  Beatrice Severn

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  Ernie Kovacs

  Capt. Segura

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  Noël Coward

  Hawthorne

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  Ralph Richardson

  'C'

Reviews

Our Man in Havana has been widely praised for its clever adaptation of Graham Greene's novel and Alec Guinness's charming performance. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an impressive 95% approval rating, with critics lauding its sharp satire and engaging storyline. The critical consensus highlights its effective blend of humor and political intrigue as one of its standout qualities. IMDb rates the movie at a solid 7.2/10 based on audience reviews, reflecting generally favorable reception from viewers appreciating its unique tone and classic spy parody feel. Critics often commend Carol Reed's direction, noting how it balances suspense with comedy without losing narrative pace. Some reviews emphasize the film's timeless relevance and intelligence in portraying espionage as a sometimes absurd and bureaucratic activity. However, a few critics point out that the movie's pacing might feel slow for modern audiences and some of the humor may come across as dated. Overall, the film remains a beloved classic of British cinema, celebrated for its wit, performances, and thoughtful critique of Cold War paranoia.