Analysis:

Carol Reed chose to adapt F.L. Green's 1945 novel Odd Man Out for its quasi-religious undertones, the opportunity it provided for a number of strong character scenes and for the seriousness with which it dealt with its tragic story of the 'troubles' in Northern Ireland, although in the film Belfast is not mentioned by name and the IRA referred to only as 'The Organisation'.

James Mason is brilliantly cast as the almost mythic anti-hero Johnny McQueen, dominating every scene that he is in. Mason is introduced in clever fashion by having us first hear his velvety voice, still distinctive with a mild Irish lilt, before we actually see his face. A star of Mason's stature was required because although his is the central role, Johnny is on-screen for a comparatively small proportion of the film.

Read the full analysis on BFI Screenonline.