Cast
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James Coburn
as Derek Flint
Lee J. Cobb
as Lloyd C. Cramden
Jean Hale
as Lisa
Andrew Duggan
as U.S. President Trent
Anna Lee
as Elisabeth
Hanna Landy
as Helena
Totty Ames
as Simone
Steve Ihnat
as General Carter
Thomas Hasson
as Lieutenant Avery
Mary Michael
as Terry
Diane Bond
as Jan
Jacki Ray
as Denise
Herb Edelman
as Russian Premier
Yvonne Craig
as Natasha, the Ballerina
Robert "Buzz" Henry
as Austin
Crew
Director
- Gordon Douglas
Writer
- Hal Fimberg
Producer
- Saul David
- Martin Fink
Reviews
Wuchak
_**Tedious sequel put an end to the franchise**_
Super-spy Derek Flint (James Coburn) takes on a cabal of female tycoons who work from a tropical spa located in the Virgin Islands. Their plan to take over the world begins with replacing the president with an impersonator (Andrew Duggan). Lee J. Cobb and Jean Hale costar. Yvonne Craig shows up as a Russian ballerina.
"In Like Flint" (1967) is a mid-60’s spy send-up in the manner of the Matt Helm flicks and “Fathom.” It’s not an outrageous spoof, like the TV show Get Smart, but takes the relatively low-key route. Everything is here for a quality movie of this sort, including loads of 60’s babes, but the story isn’t compelling and the creators didn’t seem to know how to take advantage of their feminine resources (not talkin’ ’bout nudity or sleaze).
This was the second in the Flint series after “Our Man Flint” from the previous year, but the slashed budget and tiresome story put the kibosh on the franchise. It’s still worth checking out though for a few amusing scenes and the authentic mid-60’s ambiance (authentic because that’s when it was made). Coburn was certainly the king of cool at the time and it wasn’t his fault the script & general filmmaking were below par.
The film is overlong at 1 hour, 54 minutes. It was shot in Jamaica (Montego Bay & Dunn's River Falls) and Los Angeles (Century City & Hyperion Water Reclamation Plant).
GRADE: C
Nov 30, 2020
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Adventure/Comedy film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, In Like Flint distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Gordon Douglas brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1967, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of In Like Flint took approximately 13 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $3.8 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 114 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The costume department created over 306 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1967, when this film was released:
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While In Like Flint shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike College, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, In Like Flint subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Leroy & Stitch and Thunderpants explore similar territory, In Like Flint stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 15, 1967
- Runtime: 1h 54m
- Budget: $3,775,000
- Revenue: $11,000,000
