Play Misty for Me

Play Misty for Me, released in 1971, was a frontier work in the thriller genre and marked Clint Eastwood's Directorial debut. The film stars Clint Eastwood himself, with the brilliant performances of Jessica Walter and Donna Mills.

The story is based in the picturesque coastal city Carmel, California, known for its arresting beauty. Eastwood plays Dave Garver, a smooth-talking, womanizing celebrity radio jockey for a local radio station, KRML. He's a night owl, broadcasting late into the night, and his husky voice swiftly becomes the soundtrack to the city's nocturnal hours. Dedicated mainly to jazz, he infuses his charisma even in the selection of tracks, making the show a magnetic segment for listeners. But, along with the soothing jazz, Garver is best known for his catchphrase, which he never forgets to put out, "Play Misty for me".

Jessica Walter's memorable portrayal of the character Evelyn Draper forms the crux of the plot. Evelyn is a fan, or more precisely, an obsessive admirer of Dave. She's the mysterious woman who repeatedly calls into Dave's radio show, asking him to play her favorite song, 'Misty'. What begins as seemingly harmless admiration soon takes a more intense, darker turn. Evelyn's infatuation multiplies every time her request for 'Misty. gets fulfilled, sparking the radio host's curiosity about the anonymous caller's identity.

The story picks up when Dave and Evelyn cross paths at his favorite bar. Oblivious to the fact that she is his ardent fan, they have a casual chat and share a few drinks. Circumstances lead to Dave inviting her over to his place, sparking an unpredictable chain of events.

Donna Mills plays Clint's on-and-off love interest, Tobie Williams. She's the sweet contrast to the obsessive Evelyn, reflecting the more serene and sensible side of love. The turbulence of Dave's life oscillates between these two women, with Tobie representing the calm and Evelyn, the raging storm.

Throughout the film, Eastwood masterfully blurs the confines between infatuation, fixation, and madness. Eastwood’s portrayal of Dave Garver is spot-on as he imbues the character with a sense of naivety and flamboyance. Jessica Walter, on the other hand, gives a performance that steals the limelight; her transformation from a casual fan to a woman unable to deal with rejection is chilling and impactful.

As much as Play Misty for Me is a tale of obsession, it is also a character study of Dave himself. It explores the themes of womanizing, roaming fancy-free, and the inability to commit to a relationship, embodied in Dave's character, and the repercussions that follow when things spiral out of his control. At the same time, the film also brings to focus how someone's public persona can expose them to potential dangers, especially from those who feel an intense, albeit misplaced sense of personal connection.

The direction by Clint Eastwood ensures the suspense is built and maintained in a manner that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is perfect, the anxiety is carefully built up, and released in well-executed sequences. The cinematography beautifully captures the aesthetic appeal of Carmel and also fuses it with the distinct 70's style of filmmaking.

The film's title song, Erroll Garner's jazz standard "Misty," sets the tone and the pace of the movie beautifully – a calm, bemusing start leading to a tumultuous climax. The soundtrack, predominantly jazz, adds another layer to the film’s suspense and intrigue.

Overall, Play Misty for Me is a psychological thriller that explores the threshold of obsession and highlights the unexpectedly frightening consequences of fame. With unforgettable performances by Eastwood and Walter, it holds up incredibly well even when watched through a contemporary lens. It’s a must-watch for any fan of thrillers or classic cinema, providing the perfect blend of suspense, drama, and thought-provoking themes.