The Tamarind Seed (1974)

The Tamarind Seed has all the ingredients of a first rate spy thriller. It also has all the ingredients of a first rate romance. Yet somehow when it combines these ingredients, the result is considerably less than first rate. Pinpointing the exact problem is rather difficult. Clearly, the film is too long and drags considerably, but why this is the case is hard to say. The blame must certainly rest with Blake Edwards, as he both wrote and directed it. Yet aside from the pacing, his direction is sleek and stylish and appropriate for the material. And while the screenplay may not win any awards, it has the requisite complicated plot, potentially exciting elements and "kiss panel" moments. Yet it never quite jells. Whatever the problems, he's well served by his stars. Omar Sharif is charming and charismatic, and Julie Andrews certainly knows how to play a reserved, somewhat lonely woman with secret passions inside, and both are believable as they try to avoid falling in love (for good reasons). The movie also looks good, and contains some lovely Dior outfits. Now if it only had that vital spark that it so desperately needs. . . ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide